Riyadh: The Saudi Falcons Club has finalized preparations for the highly anticipated King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival 2024, scheduled to take place from December 3 to 19 at the club’s headquarters in Malham, located north of Riyadh. Recognized as the largest global gathering of falcons, the festival will feature participation from a distinguished group of falconers, including amateurs, professionals, and falcon owners from both Saudi Arabia and abroad. They will compete in the Al-Mellwah (falcon racing) and Mazayen (falcon beauty pageant) competitions.
According to Saudi Press Agency, CEO of the Saudi Falcons Club Talal AlShamaisi explained that the festival’s primary aim is to advance falconry as a key cultural hobby, while preserving and promoting this Arab tradition. He further noted that the club strives to position falconry as a major heritage tourism attraction, fostering national pride and engaging younger generations in a competitive, yet spirited environment. The festival is also aligned with effor
ts to promote environmental conservation and protect wildlife.
AlShamaisi emphasized that the festival has earned a spot in the Guinness World Records three times for hosting the world’s largest gathering of falcons. This year, the competition will span 17 days and feature 138 rounds, with more than 900 prizes up for grabs, totaling SAR 36 million.
In addition to the main competitions, the festival will feature various accompanying events. Official spokesman for the Saudi Falcons Club Walid Al-Taweel shared that one of the key highlights will be the Falconer of the Future Pavilion, aimed at engaging and educating the next generation of falconers. This initiative will incorporate interactive activities blending modern technologies with traditional falconry knowledge, history, and hunting techniques.
Al-Taweel also revealed that the festival will host 10 internal pavilions, showcasing falconry and hunting gear, as well as trip equipment. These pavilions will offer a comprehensive experience for visitors,
combining authenticity with adventure. The Al-Mellwah competition will include 49 qualifying rounds, while the Mazayen competition will feature six rounds for falcons sourced from international production farms, in addition to special rounds for emerging young falconers.
Falconers will compete for prestigious prizes, including the King Abdulaziz Cups and the coveted King’s Sword, underscoring the festival’s role in celebrating the rich cultural heritage of falconry and pushing the boundaries of competitive spirit.
