Abu Dhabi's Environment Agency Extends Falconry Season From October 2025 To February 2026

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), has extended the traditional wild hunting season in Abu Dhabi. This falconry season will now run from 20th October, 2025 to 5th February, 2026, as per Resolution No. (7) of 2025. The decision aligns with EAD's aim to regulate falconry, a practice deeply embedded in UAE culture.

The EAD has specified that only licenced falconers can engage in traditional wild hunting during the 2025-2026 season. This ensures that the activity adheres to legal and environmental standards. Falconry is limited to open areas in Abu Dhabi, at least two kilometres away from roads, prohibited zones, forests, protected areas, petroleum and military sites, and residential regions.

To obtain a falconry licence, applicants must be UAE citizens aged 18 or older. Falcons used must be registered with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment's Falcon Registration System. Licences are issued through the Abu Dhabi Unified Government Services System, TAMM. Applicants can apply via the TAMM smart app or website using their digital UAE Pass identity.

The process involves selecting "Support Community and Environment" from services and choosing "Issuing a Falconry Licence." A fee of AED127 per season applies for this service on TAMM. Once terms are accepted, an electronic licence is issued immediately through TAMM.

The licence mandates adherence to environmental requirements and restricts hunting to daylight hours during the specified season dates for 2025-2026. The EAD's designation of this hunting season underscores its dedication to supporting falconers while promoting this traditional sport both locally and globally.

EAD collaborates closely with strategic partners like the Emirates Falconers' Club to foster an environment conducive to falconry. This partnership helps develop scientific and executive regulations ensuring the sport meets international standards and best practices.

Cultural Heritage Preservation

EAD issues licences under Local Resolution No. (5) of 2021, which amends certain provisions of the Executive Regulations of the Hunting Law. This supports wild hunting while preserving falconry as a key element of UAE heritage. It encourages current and future generations to engage in falconry within legal frameworks.

This initiative reflects EAD's commitment to instilling authentic Arab heritage values among youth by introducing them to falconry's historical significance in Emirati culture.

With inputs from WAM