The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition continues to establish itself as a global platform celebrating the heritage and culture of the United Arab Emirates, while simultaneously showcasing the richness and diversity of global cultures and traditions, with wide participation from 68 countries around the world, offering visitors a broad range of distinctive activities and events.

This year’s edition features a variety of live shows and interactive zones that embody authentic Emirati heritage practices such as falconry, camel racing, saluki dog hunting, and equestrian sports.

Aligned with this year’s theme “Renewed Heritage,” the exhibition aims to inspire and educate generations about the depth of Emirati cultural heritage and its origins, highlighting the historical significance of these traditions in the national identity.

The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research participates as a knowledge partner through sessions and scientific lectures highlighting the historical role of hunting and equestrianism in shaping the Emirati national identity, alongside the “Emirati Leadership Encyclopedia” which ensures the transmission of this rich heritage to future generations.

In the field of cultural preservation, the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center offers a range of interactive activities that enhance the status of falconry, hunting, and saluki dogs in Emirati heritage, while the National Childhood Development Academy presents interactive workshops focusing on promoting the Arabic language, consolidating national identity, and pride in cultural belonging. The Abu Dhabi Sports Council enriches visitors’ experience with practical events in shooting, fencing, polo, and marine sports, alongside traditional handicraft displays.

As a heritage partner, the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage provides a distinguished platform dedicated to families and children, including interactive educational activities, traditional costume shows, a virtual tour of the Al Dhafra Festival, and opportunities to engage with the “Million’s Poet” program and experience the authentic Emirati majlis atmosphere.

Japan is strongly present this year with 63 exhibitors and brands. The “INDEX” pavilion showcases traditional Japanese culture through falconry displays, tool making, tea ceremony rituals, and musical performances, while the “INPEX” pavilion offers live demonstrations of Japanese katana sword making by expert Shinsuke Ohako, in addition to the “Amezaiku” art which transforms candy into artistic shapes inspired by animals and characters.

Several African countries also participate, taking visitors on unforgettable journeys. South Africa is represented by 34 brands offering a unique safari experience featuring the “Big Five”: lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and African buffalo.

Botswana, through the “Lutsan Signature” group, offers luxury five-star hospitality experiences amidst wildlife in pristine nature, where visitors enjoy safari tours, photography, and historical explorations in some of the world’s most beautiful natural environments.

The exhibition is adorned with rare collectibles and products displayed by many participating pavilions, aiming to strengthen the connection of younger generations to heritage and highlight the rich cultural legacy of the country.

Ahmed Saif bin Hanthal, Director of the Sharjah Museum of Classic Cars, confirmed that the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition has achieved great success over more than 20 years, establishing itself as a global beacon for enhancing heritage connection. It also provides an ideal platform for national, regional, and international companies specializing in showcasing their latest products related to the hunting and equestrian sector. He pointed out that the Sharjah Classic Cars Club pavilion includes a rare hunting car dating back to 1960, used in hunting and shooting trips.

He explained that the car was fully restored in the specialized workshop provided by the club within a record time, aiming to display it to visitors of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition.

He also noted that the club offers an interactive platform in its pavilion for visitors to learn about hunting practices in the country, in addition to a special corner for rare car license plates.