Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, has appointed Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Emirates Falcons International Cup.

Sheikh Zayed, who also serves as Vice President of both the UAE Falcons Federation and the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, will oversee the newly launched international championship, which aims to promote falcon racing globally under the UAE’s leadership.

Sheikh Ahmed also directed the formation of the championship’s Supreme Organising Committee, to be chaired by Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of both federations. The committee will be responsible for the planning and execution of the event, which will be held annually in different countries, starting with Kuwait in December 2025.

Four subcommittees - Referees, Appeals, Technical, and Registration, Protocol and Logistics - will report to the Supreme Committee to ensure the operational delivery of the event.

The initiative is held under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed. Organisers say the event reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting traditional sports on a global stage.

The first edition will take place in Kuwait from December 4 to 7, featuring seven races in the Farkh category. The final race will see the top five falcons from each breed - Pure Jeer, Jeer Shaheen, Qarmoosha, and Jeer Taba - compete for total prize money of AED500,000.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko

Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.