Emirates Falcons International Cup To Launch As Annual Championship From 2025–2026 Season

The UAE Falcons Federation has announced the Emirates Falcons International Cup, an annual global falconry championship. This initiative follows directives from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The event aims to elevate falconry on the world stage, starting from the 2025–2026 season, by promoting its rich heritage and ensuring high standards.

H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed highlighted the UAE's leadership in preserving Emirati heritage through falconry. He stated, "The leadership’s unstinting support for falconry sports denotes the great importance accorded to preserving diverse aspects of authentic Emirati heritage, especially since falconry represents a distinguished symbol of cultural legacy not only nationally but also globally." This reflects the UAE's commitment to showcasing its cultural legacy worldwide.

Sheikh Ahmed emphasised that the UAE has set new global benchmarks in advancing falconry as a competitive sport. This progress draws inspiration from initiatives launched by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. These efforts have helped popularise falconry and other heritage sports, making their impact visible today. The UAE continues to be a pioneer in taking falconry to international platforms.

The championship will be unique as it will carry the UAE’s name and be hosted outside its borders. Hosting rights will go to countries meeting specific criteria set by the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing. Details about this will be shared later at a press conference by the UAE Falcons Federation.

Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan welcomed this new competition, noting it comes when the UAE leads in promoting falconry among heritage sports globally. He stated that associating major events with the UAE adds prestige and motivates participants to excel due to the honour attached to such championships.

The championship aims to foster sportsmanship and healthy competition while advancing sustainability in falconry worldwide. It seeks to integrate falconry into sporting calendars globally, enhancing its popularity across different countries and communities.

Leadership's Role in Falconry's Growth

Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary-General of both federations, praised the UAE’s approach in promoting falconry sports internationally. He noted that "the UAE’s unique approach in promoting falconry sports has earned it global acclaim." This success stems from strategic steps that have brought this ancient sport back into international prominence.

Bin Markhan expressed gratitude for H.H. Sheikh Ahmed’s patronage of the Emirates Falcons International Cup. He acknowledged various entities working harmoniously within the UAE to celebrate and expand this sport's glorious heritage far and wide.

The constant involvement of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad has been crucial in driving this initiative forward. His role as Vice President of both federations ensures continued momentum for these efforts, aligning with broader goals of enhancing global interest in falconry.

This championship represents a significant step towards consolidating the UAE’s position as a leading destination for falconry while preserving its cultural significance through innovative strategies and international events.

With inputs from WAM