Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, visited the 2025 edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) on Saturday, underscoring the UAE’s strategic emphasis on preserving cultural heritage while fostering innovation in traditional industries.
The event is taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and runs through September 7. Now in its 22nd year, ADIHEX 2025 is the largest edition in the event’s history, occupying 92,000 square metres and hosting 2,068 exhibitors and brands from 68 countries. The scale marks a 21 percent increase in participation compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing global interest in the sectors of hunting, equestrian sports, falconry and sustainable heritage practices.
Eleven countries are taking part for the first time, further expanding the international scope of the exhibition. During his tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Hamdan was accompanied by Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ADNEC Group. The Crown Prince visited several prominent pavilions, including the Caracal showcase by EDGE Group and the Al Ghadeer Crafts pavilion of the Emirates Red Crescent.
He met with local and international participants and reviewed new products, technologies and national initiatives on display. Speaking during the visit, Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that ADIHEX represents more than a cultural or sporting event. He said it serves as a platform for preserving and transmitting Emirati heritage to future generations in a manner that aligns with the country’s identity and environmental values.
ADIHEX 2025 expands global participation with 68 countries
He noted the event highlights the creativity of Emirati youth and reflects the UAE’s efforts to balance tradition with modernization while positioning itself as a global hub for heritage innovation. Organized by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Emirates Falconers’ Club, ADIHEX features 15 key sectors this year, including hunting equipment, equestrian products, falconry tools, outdoor leisure gear and traditional crafts.
Newly introduced segments in the 2025 edition include exhibitions dedicated to camels, Arabian Salukis, and handmade knives, along with a traditional souq, adding to the cultural richness of the event. Falconry remains a major focus, with eight dedicated falconry auctions scheduled, including four held ahead of the event’s opening.
Forty-six falcon breeding farms are participating, highlighting the UAE’s leadership in preserving this centuries-old practice. The event also includes educational programs and interactive zones aimed at younger audiences, such as the Falconry Guardians Passport and Junior Veterinarian initiatives.
ADIHEX affirms UAE’s global heritage leadership
Industry leaders, artisans, conservationists and enthusiasts are using the platform to connect and collaborate on emerging trends, environmental conservation, and responsible sporting practices. With a significant number of regional and international buyers in attendance, ADIHEX has also evolved into a strategic marketplace for trade in heritage and outdoor lifestyle products.
As the exhibition continues through early September, it reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a leading destination for cultural and economic diplomacy. The UAE government continues to support initiatives like ADIHEX as part of its broader strategy to promote sustainable development, heritage tourism, and global cultural dialogue.
The 2025 edition stands out not only for its size but for its emphasis on innovation, inclusion, and education, presenting a unified vision of how tradition can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world through meaningful engagement, cross-cultural collaboration, and the integration of modern technologies to preserve heritage for future generations. – By Content Syndication Services.