Login
History & Heritage
Discover the ancient art of falconry in Dubai
Thu 13 March 2025
Experiencing the power, grace and beauty of a well-trained falcon is phenomenal, and recommended for every visitor to Dubai.
Experiencing the power, grace and beauty of a well-trained falcon is phenomenal, and recommended for every visitor to Dubai.
Falcons are without doubt one of the most incredible creatures on the planet. Not only are they the fastest animals in the world – a peregrine falcon has been clocked diving at 389kmh (242mph) – but their combination of extreme speed, power and agility makes them formidable hunters. It's why the Bedouins of the Arabian peninsula have used falcons to help capture prey for millennia. Nowadays their importance in Bedouin life is more ceremonial but, thanks to a renewed interest in racing the birds, the practice of falconry has never been more vibrant.
The UAE is the premier world centre for falconry – the falcon is, after all, the country’s national bird – so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities for visitors in Dubai to get a glimpse of the practice or even handle a bird themselves, all under close supervision. Activities vary between different providers, and can include things like watching falcons dive for prey from a hot air balloon, a demonstration of how falconers train a bird, and some background on the history of falconry and the birds themselves. Plus, they all include an opportunity to see these stunningly beautiful creatures up close. Sign up for these experiences on your next holiday.
Discover more of Dubai's natural treasures at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary or learn all about camels.
