Emirates Falcon Racing International Cup In Kuwait Highlights Heritage Sport's Global Appeal

The Emirates Falcon Racing International Cup concluded its first edition in Kuwait on 7 December 2025. This event, held over four days, attracted top falconers and spectators from around the globe. It was the first international competition of its kind in falconry, drawing significant media attention and allowing audiences worldwide to experience this traditional sport.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE's Minister of Sports, expressed gratitude to Kuwait for hosting the championship during the closing ceremony at Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre. He highlighted the strong ties between the UAE and Kuwait, emphasising how falconry unites people through shared history and aspirations. "The relationship between the UAE and Kuwait goes beyond words and represents a shared destiny strengthened by brotherhood, history, and lofty aspirations," he stated.

Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary-General of both the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Racing and the UAE Falcons Federation, addressed attendees about launching this event in Kuwait. He praised Kuwaiti support for ensuring success and noted that 200 falconers with 270 falcons participated. "The joy expressed by Kuwaiti falconers upon achieving remarkable results in a championship held under the name of the United Arab Emirates is a great motivator for us to continue developing this competition at the highest level," he said.

Kuwait’s Minister of Information and Culture, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, commended organisers for their efforts in hosting this inaugural championship. He reaffirmed Kuwait's dedication to supporting falconry as a heritage sport. Al-Mutairi also appreciated the UAE's trust in choosing Kuwait as the venue, highlighting cooperation between both nations.

The event featured seven races in various categories like Farkh, Hur, and Shaheen. The Cup Race was a highlight of these competitions. Officials praised organisational standards set by UAE Falcons Federation under His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan's guidance. The patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also played a crucial role.

The closing ceremony included thanks to supporting entities from both countries such as Amiri Diwan and Kuwait’s Public Authority for Sport. The UAE delegation led by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi received special mention for their contributions.

Future Prospects

The organising committee announced plans to expand participation in future editions across member states of the International Federation of Falconry Sports and Racing. This aims to enhance global recognition for falcon racing while fostering broader engagement among enthusiasts worldwide.

The championship not only celebrated sportsmanship but also honoured cultural legacies deeply rooted within GCC societies. With its successful debut, it promises an exciting future for international falconry events.

With inputs from WAM