The first thing that comes to our mind when we think about Dubai is the vast desert is the luxury experiences. Like the scrappers or unbelievable shopping deals. However, there is one more thing that the UAE is known for. Yes, you guessed it correctly, it’s the desert safari experience and Falcons.
In addition to that, taking photos of oneself with the Falcons is typical. But have you ever thought about why, in Emirati tradition, falcons are regarded as such an important bird? We will discuss the historical and cultural significance of falcons as well as their role in contemporary Emirati culture in this comprehensive guide to falconry in the United Arab Emirates. Continue reading to find out about the opportunities to visit and take photos with the falcons, as well as the importance of falconry in Emirati culture.
The Falconry’s Historical Origins
The Arabian Peninsula has been home to falconry practitioners for more than 2,000 years. Because the Bedouin tribes must rely on falcons to hunt food in the hostile desert, this custom has been preserved to ensure their survival. Successful hunting depended on a bond of trust and respect between the falconer and the bird.
Customary Procedures
Proper and traditional falconry training involves teaching predators, falcons, to hunt wild game such as hares and houbara bustards. Although the methods and procedures used to train these Falcons have changed throughout the years, the knowledge and expertise have been handed down through the generations.
The Value of Culture in Emirati Society
Considering the Falcons’ historical significance and current objectives, it is reasonable to conclude that the group is highly significant and ingrained in its culture. This relationship with these incredible birds represents perseverance, patience, and a close bond with the natural world. Falcons are a symbol of the ancient Bedouin way of life. Resourcefulness and harmony with the natural world were essential to survival. You should be aware that the Falcons are highly revered in Emirati culture since they stand for strength and dignity.
Falconry in Contemporary Emirati Culture
The United Arab Emirates’ legacy of falconry has changed throughout time. The Emirates Falconers’ Club is one of many organisations in the UAE that is crucial to the organisation of events. Like the bird show, educational initiatives, and general attempts to conserve these magnificent birds. Falconry has also gained international prominence after the United Arab Emirates was added to the UNESCO-managed list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Falconry Experiences in the UAE
Now that we are aware of the Falcons’ remarkable past and significance, it is critical to understand the opportunities to see and learn more about the team. Experiences like the Falconry Museum and Desert Safari are abundant in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where you may witness these magnificent creatures. Thus, here are a few opportunities for you to snap photos with these incredible birds:
Natural Safari and Historical Falconry
If you’d like to attend a Falconry display and have your photo taken with it, this is one of the greatest experiences available. Take part in the falconry displays with our Dubai Falconry Safari. You may witness the birds’ impressive level of training throughout these performances, and you can also feel the excitement of having a prey land on your gloves. You will have up close views of these magnificent birds.
Dubai Hot Air Balloon Tour
This is an additional experience that happens in the desert, far from Dubai’s huge buildings. Once you’ve taken in the breathtaking sights from the hot air balloon, you may get your photo taken with falcons.
Museum of Falconry
The Falconry Museum is located on the grounds of the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital in Al Shamkha. You may view the instruments and supplies needed for falconry in this museum. In addition, you can take a picture of a falcon sitting on your hand in the hospital’s gardens and watch them fly around the aviary. Most of the time, the Falconry Museum is not included in city tours of Abu Dhabi. You need to set out some time in your schedule to come here only.
Closure
To sum up, in the UAE, falconry is more than just a customary activity. It represents the legacy and culture of the Emirati people. The traditional society still holds on to its historical roots. Numerous organisations dedicate their hearts and minds to the preservation of the Falcons in this nation. Hence, always include falconry experience in your desert safari in Dubai.
