The 23rd edition of Abu Dhabi’s premier hunting and equestrian exhibition opened on August 28, 2026, under the theme “A Legacy of Pride.” ADNEC Group CEO Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri told WAM that the event serves as a global model for using cultural heritage to promote sustainable development. This year’s ADIHEX has been extended to 10 days and is projected to welcome more than 2,400 exhibitors from 71 countries along with hundreds of thousands of visitors.
The official highlighted that preserving Emirati and Arab heritage for new generations has remained a central goal since the exhibition began. Falconry, equestrianism, traditional hunting, handicrafts and live demonstrations play key roles in passing down knowledge, bolstering national identity and promoting awareness of intangible cultural heritage. International companies participating in the 15 specialised sectors offer visitors the latest innovations and expert insights in related fields.
According to The National, the exhibition underscores the UAE’s traditions in falconry and equestrian sports alongside commitments to outdoor adventure and environmental sustainability. The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi is showcasing its use of technology for conservation under the theme “Leveraging Technology to Protect the Environment.” EAD Secretary General Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri pointed out that Emirati heritage has long embodied respect for nature and wildlife.
Al Dhaheri stated that ADIHEX turns heritage into a driver for cultural and economic progress. He explained that a sustainable approach to heritage helps maintain national identity while fostering growth and opening new investment avenues. “The central message is that heritage is not merely part of the past, but a driving force for the future,” Al Dhaheri said.
The event is anticipated to provide significant boosts to Abu Dhabi’s hospitality, tourism, transport and service industries through global attendance. Such benefits help solidify the emirate’s reputation as a hub for business, tourism and high-profile exhibitions. Organisers have incorporated numerous interactive sessions to keep cultural education at the forefront of visitor experiences.
EAD is also promoting the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, which handles more than 11,000 falcons annually. Attendees can obtain native plant seedlings including Ghaf, Sidr and Samar to cultivate at home as part of natural heritage initiatives. These combined efforts illustrate how the exhibition merges historical practices with contemporary innovations to encourage sustainable living among residents and visitors alike.
