ADIHEX 2024 To Showcase Unprecedented Participation And Emirati Heritage

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 21st Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2024) will be held from 31st August to 8th September 2024 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. The event was announced during a press conference on 28th August in Abu Dhabi, attended by key figures including Majed Ali Al Mansoori, Secretary-General of the Emirates Falconers Club.

Humaid Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, revealed that this year's edition would see record participation. The number of exhibiting companies has increased by over 58.5 percent compared to 2023, reaching 1,742. The exhibition area has also expanded by 34 percent to more than 87,000 square metres. National companies will make up 68 percent of exhibitors, with international companies comprising the remaining 32 percent.

Since its inception in 2003, ADIHEX has seen substantial growth. The exhibition area has expanded from an initial 6,000 square metres to over 87,000 square metres. The number of exhibitors has grown from just 40 to an impressive 1,742 companies and brands. This year’s event is expected to attract visitors from 65 countries, a significant increase from the initial participation of just 14 countries.

The exhibition will feature live and online auctions for elite and rare falcons. Additionally, it will launch the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition badge for falcons. These badges qualify them for the next rounds of the UAE President's Cup season for 2024/2025. Total prizes amounting to AED760,000 will be awarded, with AED190,000 allocated for the top ten places in each category.

This year's edition introduces new features across various sectors to offer visitors a richer experience. Saad Al Hasani, ADIHEX Event Director, noted that "ADIHEX has continually evolved by embracing innovation while staying true to Emirati culture and heritage." Thirteen new features across eleven sectors will be introduced this year.

Preserving Culture and Heritage

Majed Ali Al Mansouri expressed gratitude for the support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He emphasised that ADIHEX plays a crucial role in preserving and celebrating Emirati culture and heritage. "The current edition of the exhibition marks a new beginning," he said.

Al Mansouri highlighted that ADIHEX has become a significant event promoting Arab heritage and traditions due to collaboration between all supporting parties. He added that this year’s edition offers an exceptional opportunity due to the strategic partnership between the Emirates Falconers' Club and ADNEC Group.

Diverse Sectors Showcased

The exhibition will feature eleven sectors including Hunting; Shooting Sports Guns and Equipment; Hunting Tourism and Safari; Preservation of Culture and Heritage; Arts and Crafts; Recreational Vehicles and Motorhomes; Fishing Equipment and Marine Sports; Outdoor Leisure Vehicle and Equipment; Hunting and Camping Equipment; Veterinary Products and Services; Falconry; and Equestrian.

Each sector will showcase a wide range of activities from traditional outdoor pursuits to cultural displays. This diversity aims to provide visitors with a comprehensive experience reflecting both modern innovations and traditional practices.

Al Dhaheri emphasised that this growth reflects efforts by ADNEC Group and the Emirates Falconers Club to ensure the event aligns with Abu Dhabi's reputation on regional and international levels. He added that the exhibition plays a crucial role in showcasing UAE’s rich cultural heritage while attracting industry leaders.

The event is expected to draw more than 600 media representatives covering various activities throughout its duration. This extensive coverage highlights its significance as a major cultural event in Abu Dhabi.

The upcoming edition promises a distinctive version with diverse exhibitors thanks to ADNEC Group’s long-standing experience in organising leading international events. "We aspire to present a distinctive version of the exhibition," stated Al Mansouri.

The unique auctions at ADIHEX celebrate national traditions while providing enthusiasts with opportunities to connect with Emirati craftsmanship. This blend of innovation with tradition ensures that ADIHEX remains relevant while honouring its roots.

With inputs from WAM