Abu Dhabi: One of the largest Arab cultural heritage and sustainable hunting events begins on October 4 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), the organisation committee announced on Wednesday.
The 14th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex), held under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club (EFC), will run from October 4 to 8.
The exhibition, which is set to focus on educational events that promote sustainable hunting, will showcase a range of events, including pony riding and grooming sessions, dog and bird shows, Arabian Saluki beauty contest, and falconry, with sessions on handling falcons and horse auctions.
The Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Horse Flat Racing Festival pavilion will be one of the biggest at the exhibition, promising to give away 20,000 iPhones and iPads in prizes every day.
Shaikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs, has also gifted two of his own horses to be auctioned at the event.
The organisers pointed out that great effort has also been made to raise awareness about sustainable hunting, especially among children and young people, in a fun yet educational way.
“Our focus this year will be more on educational events for the younger generation and children. We are specially focusing on teaching children about sustainable hunting, so that they can learn how to practice their hobbies in a sustainable way,” said Ali Al Mansouri, chairman of the Higher Organising Committee and executive director of the Emirates Falconer’s Club.
Speaking to Gulf News Al Mansouri said he hopes the event will provide a cultural and educational experience for people, especially first-time visitors.
“What makes this event special is the mix between culture and sustainability, and what is the latest in all these fields,” said Al Mansouri.
He added that a mix of participation by environmentalists and people who are interested in culture and art, is a special collaboration that brings different segments of the community together.
The exhibition will span over more than 40,000 square metres, with more than 650 companies from about 40 countries participating. There will be 126 local exhibitors and 74 new participants.
The growing number of visitors over the years prompted the organisers to extend the exhibition to five days this year.
Since 2003, Adihex has drawn more than 1.2 million visitors, with around 100,000 people attending last year’s exhibition.
