August 30 to September 7, 2025
Abu Dhabi is set to host the 22nd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), which is expected to be the largest in its history.
The event runs from August 30 to September 7, 2025, at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers Club.
Organised by ADNEC Group in partnership with the Emirates Falconers Club, the exhibition continues to be a major platform for showcasing the UAE’s cultural heritage in falconry, equestrian sports, and hunting. It also reflects a growing international interest in traditional outdoor activities, conservation practices, and heritage-based economies.
Last year’s edition attracted more than 350,000 visitors and featured 1,742 companies and brands from 65 countries. Organisers say this year’s edition is likely to exceed those figures. The nine-day event will include, for the first time, a series of multi-stage falcon auctions, designed to broaden participation and raise the profile of the regional falconry market.
Middle East News 247 is a Media Partner of ADIHEX 2025.
Falcon auctions
The falcon auctions take place in two phases, starting before the exhibition and continuing during the event. All auctions are being held at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, with online bidding also available for select falcons.
The UAE is one of the global centres for falconry, with the sport listed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Falconry in the Gulf region is not only a traditional practice but also a commercial sector generating significant activity, according to data from the International Association for Falconry—the Middle East accounts for over 70% of global falcon transactions.
The auctions are expected to attract both regional buyers and international interest, particularly from Europe and Central Asia. Officials said the auction system will use an electronic platform to ensure transparency and broader participation.
Industry growth
ADIHEX has grown significantly since its inception in 2003. The exhibition space has increased more than fourteenfold, and the number of participating companies has expanded 43 times. It now includes sectors beyond hunting and equestrianism, with camping, fishing, traditional crafts, and outdoor recreation playing an increasing role.
Organisers have underlined the event’s dual purpose—promoting heritage while also supporting commercial development. The exhibition offers opportunities for UAE-based SMEs to access international markets. It also provides space for partnerships between global and regional companies in sectors ranging from hunting technology to eco-tourism.
There is also a focus on sustainability. With increasing international scrutiny on environmental standards in hunting and animal-based sports, the organisers say that ADIHEX is promoting ethical practices. This includes support for conservation programmes and regulated falcon breeding.
Regional expansion
ADNEC Group will host a new event—the Al Ain International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition—which will take place from November 26 to 30, 2025, at ADNEC Centre Al Ain. The latest exhibition is expected to cover more than 12,000 square metres and will include many of the core themes of ADIHEX while focusing on regional engagement.
The expansion comes amid rising interest in heritage tourism and traditional sports across the Gulf. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, cultural tourism in the Middle East grew 8.3% annually from 2015 to 2023, and is forecast to continue expanding, driven by events like ADIHEX.
Organisers say they have conducted promotional tours across the GCC, Europe, and Asia to attract exhibitors and increase visibility. The aim is to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for heritage-linked industries and events.
The UAE continues to leverage its cultural legacy to build soft power, particularly in areas tied to sustainability, conservation, and traditional sports. Events like ADIHEX support this approach while offering a business platform for both local producers and international firms.
Buy ADIHEX 2025 tickets here: https://bit.ly/40zG6kL
Hero image: ADIHEX 20025 takes place at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. Credit: ADNEC Group
