The rich cultural heritage of hunting and equestrian activities of the region and a focus on a sustainable future will come under the spotlight at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) in September.

The latest technologies and trends in equestrian, falconry, hunting gears, and camping equipment will be showcased at Adihex, which returns for its 19th edition from September 2 to 8 under the theme of “Sustainability and Heritage ... A Reborn Aspiration”.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, Adihex 2023 will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec).

The event is set to bring together over 150,000 attendees, offering an exhibition space spanning 70,000 sq m, with more than 960 exhibitors and brands from across the 11 industry sectors. The brands will showcase accessories, traditional and modern hunting equipment, and the world’s top hunting destinations.

Organised by the Emirates Falconers Club (EFC), Adihex has achieved a qualitative leap in its 18th edition, which was described as the largest and most amazing in its history. It attracted over 900 exhibitors and brands from 58 countries, achieving direct sales which exceeded AED65 million ($17.7 million), and a growth of 20 per cent in terms of the total area of the event, which exceeded 60,000 sq m.

The event also exceeded expectations in terms of the number of visitors, as it attracted over 150,000 visitors from different countries of the world over the seven days. Visitors had the opportunity to explore and obtain the latest products and innovations presented by exhibitors in the 11 sectors of the event, and enjoy live performances, competitions, and learning, as well as the beautiful cultural and heritage events.

The Higher Organizing Committee of Adihex emphasised that the confidence of exhibitors and visitors in the event represents the basis for the growth and continuity of the regional and global success of this international event. As the event gears up for its 19th edition, attendees can look forward to even more exciting showcases and experiences in the world of equestrian, falconry, hunting gears, and camping equipment.

The last edition of Adihex hosted 127 speakers who participated in presenting their techniques, skills, visions, and professional experience through 134 specialised workshops that represented a source of knowledge, awareness and a means for business success and development. The workshops were categorised in four educational platforms: sustainability, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and connection with nature.

More than 150 live performances of birds of prey, salukis and police dogs were also held, along with interesting heritage and sports shows that enhanced the exhibition’s attractiveness. The event’s educational activities and innovative artistic, cultural and scientific competitions attracted hundreds of contestants. The auctions of camels, falcons and horses were among the noticeable features of the event and a valuable opportunity to get acquainted closely with some of the most important pillars of Emirati and Arab heritage and authentic traditions.

Adihex is the only event in the UAE which allows its visitors to buy hunting and shooting weapons whose manufacturers, experts and designers compete to professionally offer the best products to hunters and shooters.

The previous edition of Adihex achieved a high record of total direct onsite sales. Over 900 companies and brands from 58 countries participated in the “Hunting and Shooting Sports Guns and Equipment” sector. Moreover, 47 regional and international companies and 110 international brands sold over 3,400 weapons to hunting professionals and enthusiasts. Additionally, partnerships and deals were struck as hunting weapons’ manufacturers registered a high turnout.

The allowed hunting weapons include hunting rifles and pistols, heritage swords and daggers, hunting knives, wooden and plastic archery units, and airguns within specific criteria.

The Higher Organizing Committee of Adihex has launched a guideline for buying and selling hunting weapons on the event’s website, as sales are subject to many terms, conditions and procedures that are clearly presented to the relevant exhibitors.