Tribune News Network
DOHA
Amid a bustling crowd of hunting and falconry aficionados, as well as traders from Qatar and beyond, the Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition, S’hail 2024, continued to impress with its wide array of commercial, cultural, and artistic activities on its second day. This year’s edition strengthens its reputation as a premier event dedicated to hunting and falconry traditions in the Gulf and the Middle East.
On Wednesday, the exhibition welcomed a visit from President of Qatar Olympic Committee HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, along with numerous high-ranking officials, dignitaries, and ambassadors.
Vice President of the Supreme Organising Committee Mohammed bin Abdul Latif Al-Masnad, remarked: "We’ve successfully established S’hail as a key destination for both traditional and modern falconry and hunting enthusiasts. This year, 171 companies from 19 countries are showcasing cutting-edge products and innovations in hunting, camping, falcon breeding, and more. This broad participation highlights the exhibition’s role in promoting technological advancement and ongoing development in these fields, responding to the growing interest.”
He added: "We strive to expand our participant base to include new countries and companies, fostering competition among local and international firms. This approach provides diverse options for falconry lovers. Additionally, S’hail supports the local economy by attracting a mix of local and global businesses, creating new job opportunities and boosting commercial activity in Qatar. It offers a platform for local traders to display their products, enhancing the visibility of Qatari goods and fostering international partnerships.”
As part of S’hail’s vibrant activities and competitions, the event saw a competition for children aged 10 to 16, offering a chance for 10 children to win unique falcons. To enter, participants need an exhibition ticket and must be present during the draw. The draws are held on the second, third, and fourth days of the event at 8pm.
This year’s S’hail places significant emphasis on environmental sustainability. Among the participants is the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, whose booth aims to inform visitors about its services, especially those related to nature reserves and wildlife protection. The booth also highlights hunting regulations, electronic services, and the stages of producing and breeding houbara bustards.
The exhibition also features notable bird breeding entities, such as Al-Baydaa Research Center for houbara production.
Additionally, several reserves are represented, including Al-Shamal Sustainable Hunting Reserve from Saudi Arabia.
Abdulmajeed Al-Dabaan, spokesperson for the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority, said: "This is our first participation in the exhibition, and we’re impressed by the large turnout and diverse international representation. Qatar has a strong interest in hunting and eco-tourism. Our participation aims to introduce the reserve and its offerings.”
He added: "Al-Shamal Sustainable Hunting Reserve, part of the Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority, is located in northeastern Saudi Arabia, covering 91,500 square metres. The reserve spans 2,000sqkm and offers various activities starting in November 2024, including falconry and weapon hunting with the appropriate licenses, as well as Saluki hunting and shooting ranges.”