Celebration of Camaraderie: Best Occasions to Watch and Understand Falconry in Saudi Arabia
Falcons and falconry have been a significant part of civilizations around the world throughout time. From the office of the Grand Falconer of France, who held an esteemed position in the King’s Palace from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution, to the Holy Roman Empire’s Frederick II, the author of “The Art of Falconry”, these majestic birds have established a strong bond with humans. From Germany to France, Italy to Belgium, falcons are still trained and cherished companions in many countries around the world, but they hold an extra special place in Saudi Arabia and this Kingdom’s heritage.
As loyal allies in the wilderness, falcons helped the Saudis navigate the desert and obtain food for survival, making them treasured companions through the ages. Today, Saudis do not need falcons to spot food, but this ancient relationship of trust and respect is still at the core of the culture, from the art and sport of falconry to folk tales and poetry, and some of the world’s biggest falconry festivals in the Kingdom are the most exciting places to witness that.
Saudi or non-Saudi, children or adults; all are welcome in Saudi Arabia’s falconry festivities, which not only present an opportunity to see these majestic predators up close, but also promote their wellbeing while protecting their habitat and ecosystem in the Kingdom of Heritage.
If you are interested in watching or participating in some of these special occasions, here’s your comprehensive guide:
1. King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival (KAFF)
November 28 – December 14, Riyadh
KAFF, the world’s largest falconry festival (Guinness World Record holder), is a must for falconry enthusiasts. Since 2017, the Festival unites falconers from all over the world to appreciate the sport of falconry, while promoting falcon racing as opposed to hunting to protect their ecosystem and habitat. More than just races, KAFF celebrates the wellbeing of falcons with beauty pageants and rewards for the best-cared-for birds.
Whether you are here to simply admire the world’s most stunning falcons or witness the 400-meter race showcasing their speed, time, and vision, KAFF is where it’s at! If you want to make your way to this “Grand Prix of falconry”, all you have to do is register or purchase your ticket here and book your transport either by renting a car or using your favorite ride hailing app to reach the venue for Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition in Malham – around 70km (around 45 miles) north of Riyadh’s central Kingdom Tower.
2. AlUla Falcon Cup
February 9- 15, 2025, AlUla
AlUla, the ancient Arabian crossroads, is now home to the prestigious AlUla Falcon Cup – one of the most prestigious competitions in falconry. For seven days, over 2,000 elite falcons from six renowned species compete in aerial displays and beauty contests, attracting the world’s best falconers.
What makes the AlUla Falcon Cup unique is its dedication to falcon welfare. At a time when conservation is becoming more important than ever, this event showcases how ancient traditions can evolve to prioritize sustainability and animal health.
And getting there is easy: book a flight to AlUla Airport from major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam and it’s just a 30-minute drive to the event. Organized tours also include stops at heritage sites like Al-Mughira village, where the competition unfolds.
3. Melwah Racing
October 7 – October 12, 2024, Riyadh
Melwah Racing is where falconers hone their skills! Watch the incredible speed and precision of falcons as they race to the finish line, showcasing the bond between the bird, the handler, and the result of their hard work and dedication.
Melwah Racing takes place at the same venue as the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, around 70km (45 miles) north of Riyadh’s famous Kingdom Tower where you can reach via private transportation or a ride hailing app. Sounds interesting? Book your tickets here!
4. The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition
October 3-12, 2024, Riyadh
This 9-day event is a must for anyone passionate about falconry and the outdoors. The largest of its kind globally, it features a vast collection of falcons and top-notch outdoor gear, while also offering interactive experiences that bring the art of falconry to life for younger generations.
With 500,000 visitors and 300 exhibitors from 30 different countries, this exhibition is the heart of falconry culture. The Exhibition also serves to familiarize the younger generations with the art and sport of falconry to educate, entertain, and breathe new life into your TikTok account.
And the best part? You can drop by the Exhibition right after or before you’re done seeing Melwah Racing! Plan your trip here!
