ADIHEX 2024 Unveils Award Winners In A Grand Celebration Of Hunting And Equestrian Excellence

The final day of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) saw the announcement and celebration of award winners across various competitions. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this 21st edition was organised by ADNEC Group in partnership with the Emirates Falconers’ Club at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.

Awards for "Best Stand Design in Each Sector" highlighted sustainability, creativity, and functionality. Judges evaluated stands based on environment-friendly materials, alignment with the theme "Embracing the Future and Honouring the Past," and innovative design features. Visitor engagement and welcome experience were also key criteria.

The winners in each category were:

• Equestrian Sector – The Emirates Arabian Horse Society

• Falconry Sector – Roscongress International

• Veterinary Products and Services Sector - The Gyrfalcons Mobile Veterinary Clinic

• Hunting & Camping Equipment Sector – UR Offroad

• Outdoor Leisure Vehicle & Equipment – Ironman

• Fishing and Marine Sports Sector – Alyaam

• RVs and Caravans Sector – Armadillo

• Weaponry (Hunting and Shooting Sports Equipment) Sector – Tasleeh

• Arts & Crafts – Mariam Al Hosani

• Preservation of Environment and Cultural Heritage Sector – The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Natural Reserve Authority

• Hunting, Tourism and Safari Sector – Natural Center for Wildlife

KHANYAR won the "Best and Most Beautiful Falcon Perch" award for handmade falcon stands. Criteria included material quality, functionality, comfort, safety for falcons, and designs reflecting Emirati heritage. Kaltham Belselah received the "Best Falconry Tools Used in Hunting" award for their reliable falconry tools.

Celebrating Craftsmanship

Tamreen won the "Best Hunting Knife Contest," open to individuals and companies. Knives were judged on quality, durability, ease of use, creative designs reflecting Emirati heritage, rust-proofing, safety, and functionality. Tunikov Wood Sculptures received the Best "Sculpture in Traditional Handicrafts" award for their creative designs using sustainable materials.

Innovative Product Exhibits

AL SABAH won the "Most Unique Product Exhibited at ADIHEX" category for innovative products made from traditional materials typical of Emirati handicrafts. These products reflected craftsmanship and functionality. The Mohamed Bin Zayed Megnas Interactive Experience was awarded "Best Feature" for their engaging workshop on hunting with falcons.

Sustainability Efforts Recognised

The International Fund for Houbara Conservation received the award for "Best Sustainability Efforts." They were recognised for over forty years of pioneering techniques to restore wild populations of the houbara bustard using science and innovation.

This year’s ADIHEX showcased a blend of tradition, skill, innovation, and creativity. The event highlighted UAE’s heritage while embracing new ideas. ADIHEX 2024 has further solidified Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for hunting and equestrian sports, education, business partnerships, and sustainability leadership.

With inputs from WAM