The International Fund for Houbara Conservation and Ekthar Wildlife Development concluded successful participation at ADIHEX 2026 after jointly presenting the Sheikh Zayed Houbara Conservation Programme and signing more than 11 strategic agreements with national and international partners. The agreements with Reneco, an operating entity of Ekthar, and other collaborators cover management services, houbara research, in-situ support and a public-private partnership with Hubara Design for a limited-edition conservation collection. A portion of proceeds from qualifying sales at the exhibition will support IFHC conservation programmes while the organisations used their joint stand to engage directly with falconers and breeders.
According to ADNEC Group figures the 23rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition attracted a record 2405 companies and brands from 71 countries across 107000 square metres of space. The 10-day event organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Emirates Falconers Club ran from August 28 to September 6 under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and featured 15 sectors dedicated to heritage hunting equestrian and outdoor activities. This year’s gathering also included the largest falcon auction programme in the exhibition’s history along with multiple cultural performances.
Mohamed AlMotawa AlDhaheri acting director general of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation said ADIHEX provides an important platform to share the progress of a conservation journey that began with the pioneering vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan nearly five decades ago. The programme now extends across 22 countries demonstrating what can be achieved when long-term vision is matched by sustained scientific commitment. The participation also marked the launch of the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative which Ekthar will operate to provide structured training and technical guidance to Emirati participants.
Breeders interested in the initiative must complete a registration and assessment process to identify their readiness and any required support before undertaking specialist workshops through the Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum covers responsible breeding practices facility management and ongoing engagement to ensure operations meet conservation standards. Ekthar as the strategic operating partner for IFHC centres and projects supplies the scientific and operational expertise needed to deliver these components effectively.
The exhibition builds on growth seen in prior editions with the 2025 event having drawn 379572 visitors according to organisers. ADIHEX has expanded steadily since its inception in 2003 evolving into a global platform that merges Emirati heritage with innovation across related sectors. Officials noted that more than 60 percent of space for future editions had already been reserved reflecting strong continued interest from participants.
