Have you ever witnessed the breathtaking spectacle of a majestic falcon soaring through the desert sky, then gracefully returning to its handler’s gloved fist, embodying centuries of tradition and a profound bond? The United Arab Emirates offers unique opportunities to delve into the ancient art of falconry through fascinating training courses.
The Historical Significance of Falconry in the UAE
Falconry, or “Al Qanas” in Arabic, is far more than just a sport in the UAE; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural heritage, passed down through generations. Historically, falcons were essential hunting companions for Bedouin tribes, providing vital sustenance in the harsh desert environment. This practice fostered a unique bond between the falconer and their bird, embodying values of patience, courage, and respect for nature. Today, falconry continues to be a revered art form, a symbol of national identity, and a testament to the Emirati people’s deep connection to their heritage. Learning falconry in the UAE means not just mastering a skill, but understanding a significant piece of its history.
Mohamed bin Zayed Falconry and Desert Physiognomy School: The Gold Standard
For a truly in-depth and culturally authentic falconry training experience, the Mohamed bin Zayed Falconry and Desert Physiognomy School in Abu Dhabi stands as a premier institution. This school is dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional art of Arab falconry, ensuring its continuity among younger generations. They offer structured courses, including a “Foundation” course, which covers the basic principles of Arab falconry, encompassing falcon training, hunting techniques, feeding, disease prevention, and behaviour. Upon completion, students can become members, allowing them to attend practical sessions each weekend throughout the falconry season and join various knowledge workshops, both online and in-person. This comprehensive approach is ideal for those serious about becoming proficient falconers.
Platinum Heritage: Luxury Falconry Experiences
For a blend of luxury and immersive cultural learning, Platinum Heritage in Dubai offers exceptional falconry training experiences. They are renowned for their “Royal Falconry Training Experience,” which combines traditional techniques with a luxurious desert safari. During a typical session, which can last around 75 to 90 minutes, participants get hands-on experience handling and flying a variety of birds, including falcons, hawks, and even owls, under the guidance of professional falconers. You’ll learn about both traditional and modern training methods, the birds’ behaviour, and their biological makeup. These experiences often include a gourmet breakfast amidst the stunning desert landscape, making it a highly memorable and educational outing.
Wild Flight Dubai: Intensive Arabian-Style Courses
Wild Flight in Dubai provides an intensive, Arabian-style falconry course for individuals keen on learning the art in detail. Their syllabus offers comprehensive tutoring on essential aspects like equipment, husbandry (care and breeding), handling techniques, and basic training of birds of prey. The course typically includes a starter kit and a certificate upon completion. All beginners are accompanied by an expert falconer with extensive experience in both Western and Arabian falconry techniques, ensuring a thorough and safe learning environment. This is an excellent option for those looking for a dedicated and focused approach to learning falconry beyond a brief demonstration.
Royal Shaheen Events: Interactive and In-Depth Programs
Royal Shaheen Events in Dubai offers both interactive falconry experiences and more in-depth courses, emphasizing the cultural significance of the practice. Their programs allow participants to personally handle and fly various birds of prey, guided by professional falconers. They focus on providing detailed insights into the birds’ natural behaviour and the ancient traditions associated with falconry in Arabia. Whether you’re looking for a short, engaging session to get a taste of the sport or a more prolonged course to develop practical skills, Royal Shaheen offers flexible options, often set in the beautiful desert outside Dubai, which enhances the authenticity of the experience.
Resort-Based Falconry Demonstrations and Mini-Courses
Many luxury desert resorts across the UAE offer engaging falconry demonstrations that can sometimes be extended into mini-training sessions for interested guests. Resorts like Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa in Dubai, as well as Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi, frequently feature daily falconry shows. While these are primarily for entertainment, some resorts offer private, hands-on sessions where expert falconers provide a deeper insight into handling and training techniques. These are perfect for those who want a taste of falconry without committing to a full-fledged course, often integrated into their broader luxury desert experiences.
Key Aspects of Falconry Training Courses
A typical falconry training course in the UAE will cover several crucial aspects. You’ll learn about the different species of falcons and other birds of prey used in falconry, their unique characteristics, and their natural habitats. Crucially, instruction will include the proper handling of these magnificent birds, understanding their behaviour, and learning the specific commands used in training. Practical sessions will involve flying a falcon to the glove, observing simulated hunting practices, and understanding the feeding routines. Emphasis is always placed on the welfare of the birds and the ethical practice of falconry, reflecting the UAE’s strong commitment to conservation and sustainable heritage.
Rules and Regulations for Falconry
It is important to understand that practicing falconry, especially hunting with falcons, is highly regulated in the UAE. To engage in traditional hunting with falcons, one must obtain a traditional hunting license (falconry). In Abu Dhabi, for instance, this license can be applied for through the TAMM unified government services system. Only UAE citizens aged 18 or older are eligible to obtain these licenses, and any falcons used must be registered in the Falcon Registration System of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Hunting is typically restricted to specific open areas, away from protected zones, residential areas, and roads, and only permitted during designated hunting seasons (e.g., October to January for the 2024-2025 season), specifically for the Houbara bustard bred in captivity. This strict regulation ensures conservation and ethical practice.
The www.few.ae Team’s Perspective on Falconry
From the viewpoint of the www.few.ae team, participating in a falconry training course in the UAE offers an incredibly rich cultural immersion. It’s a journey into a living heritage, providing insights into the deep respect and bond between humans and these magnificent birds. The expertise of the local falconers and the dedication to preserving this ancient art make it an experience that transcends mere tourism, offering genuine learning and connection. It’s a powerful reminder of the UAE’s roots and its commitment to safeguarding its traditions.
Embracing the Ancient Art
Whether you choose a short, interactive experience or a comprehensive course, attending a falconry training course in the UAE is an unforgettable way to connect with a vital part of Emirati culture. It’s an opportunity to learn a timeless skill, witness incredible avian prowess, and gain a profound appreciation for the desert and its magnificent inhabitants. Are you ready to spread your wings and delve into the world of falconry?
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