Falconry has long been a cultural staple of the Arabian Peninsula, especially in the Gulf, where people are deeply drawn to the lifestyle of raising birds. Falcons are not merely hunting tools but loyal companions that serve their owners until their last days.

This year’s falcon exhibition in Kuwait was a success, attracting participants from over 21 countries, including first-time exhibitors from Poland, Austria, Portugal and Russia. The exhibition has become a significant annual event for both enthusiasts and those interested in hunting and falconry equipment in Kuwait.

“I started raising birds about 10 years ago, learning from Hashem Al-Sulaili. I’ve been raising birds non-stop ever since,” said Ahmad Murdhi, a falcon raiser. Referring to a bird featured in the event, he explained: “This is a Spanish-bred jeer-shaheen hybrid. It’s still a farkh (young bird) at about 9 months old. The bird is known for its speed and power. The jeer is valued for its size, while the shaheen is known for its speed, making this hybrid extremely effective.” Murdhi added that another popular hybrid is the jeer tibi, which is smaller but still shares similar traits.

Yousef Ahmad, a 12-year-old aspiring falconer, has been passionate about the practice since he was seven. “The first bird I had was named Nawaf. The bird even understood Arabic and would come to me when I called him,” Yousef said. Now, Yousef has five birds, with Nawaf being his favorite. “I haven’t caught a bird of my own yet, but I’m excited to catch my first one,” he added. He encouraged those unfamiliar with falconry to give it a try, noting that birds are kind once tamed, though they initially need time to adapt to their environment and new owners.

Imran from the Philippines also appreciates the falconry culture and the hospitality of the region. “Hunting usually starts in November and lasts until February. Many birds flock to the region during this time, coming from the north and leaving when summer approaches. In Kuwait, people are skilled in falconry and are friendly to anyone interested in catching or raising falcons,” he said.

Falcons are powerful hunters with vision eight times sharper than humans. They hunt efficiently during daylight hours, silently pouncing on their prey. The traits of these wild birds made them ideal for desert nomads, who began using them to hunt fresh meat over 5,000 years ago in Iran. This tradition has since spread throughout the Middle East.

Kuwait is home to around 415 species of indigenous and migratory birds, including falcons like Al-Uqban, Al-Ruben, Al-Zaar and various owls, with the flamingo being among the most famous.