A Charter for the Ages: Sheikh Zayed’s Vision of Falconry Preserved for Future Generations
Half a century after Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural International Conference on Falconry and Conservation, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has directed the launch of a definitive charter honouring the Founding Father's enduring legacy in this most noble of pursuits.
Falconry stands as more than sport in the United Arab Emirates; it is a living thread connecting the nation to its heritage, a mirror reflecting values of discipline, compassion and respect. This month, that lineage has been formally enshrined through the ‘Sheikh Zayed Principles of Falconry’ Charter, directed into being by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing.
The Charter marks a significant moment: the 50th anniversary of the 1976 International Conference on Falconry and Conservation, the first of its kind, held in Abu Dhabi under the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The Founding Father recognised in falconry something transcendent—not merely the pursuit of sport, but a vehicle for preserving cultural identity, fostering international dialogue, and stewarding the natural world with reverence.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed noted that the Charter reflects deep pride in this legacy. “Zayed’s legacy is a trust we safeguard and a set of values we pass on to our generations, so that the UAE remains a leader in this time-honoured sport,” he affirmed. The document serves as a comprehensive reference for the UAE Falcons Federation, guiding its championships, initiatives and programmes through the seasons to come.
Ten principles form the foundation of this Charter. At their heart lies an unwavering commitment to compassion for the falcon, placing its dignity and safety above all competitive or commercial considerations. The principles extend beyond the individual bird to embrace the preservation of heritage through generations, recognising falconry as a universal language that builds bridges between peoples and cultures. Environmental stewardship emerges as equally essential: the protection of falcons and their natural habitats stands as an irrevocable commitment, inseparable from the sport’s own continuity.
Integrity and fair competition form another pillar, anchored in the falconer’s word. Scientific advancement and modern technology are acknowledged as essential tools for developing traditional practices and securing the sport’s sustainability. Perhaps most notably, the principles commit to opening participation across all segments of society, men and women, young and experienced, united by passion and given equal opportunity to excel.
Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice President of both the IFFSR and the UAE Falcons Federation, emphasised that translating these principles into concrete objectives will deepen the impact of competitions and elevate protocols across all levels. The values woven through the Charter—integrity, transparency, compassion and responsibility towards nature—align with the vision that the UAE leadership under His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan continues to nurture across all fields of endeavour.
The Charter will be presented to the Board of Directors of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing for consideration of adoption as a guiding framework at the international level. Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of both organisations, described the launch as a moment of profound pride, affirming the Charter as a reference point for the Federation’s future while ensuring that falconry’s rich heritage remains central to the sport’s development.
The 2026–2027 season ahead unfolds with renewed purpose. Preliminary races commence in early November, with falcon racing seasons beginning in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The Emirates Falcon Racing International Cup will be hosted by Bahrain, the UAE Falcons Federation Cup takes place in Dubai in December, and the season culminates in January with the National Production Shield. Youth development programmes, including ‘Falconer of the Future’, will translate the principle of intergenerational knowledge transfer into lived experience, combining skill, compassion and respect for traditional methods whilst drawing upon science and modern innovation.
What it means for Abu Dhabi
For Abu Dhabi, this Charter represents an affirmation of the Emirate’s foundational role in elevating falconry to a matter of international significance. It was here, in 1976, that Sheikh Zayed convened the world to recognise falconry not as a provincial pursuit but as a shared human heritage worthy of preservation and celebration. The Charter now ensures that vision endures, grounded in principles that honour both tradition and progress.
The commitment to youth development, environmental stewardship and transparent governance reflects values that resonate throughout Abu Dhabi’s contemporary ambitions. As the UAE Falcons Federation implements these principles across its calendar of events, Abu Dhabi’s role as custodian of falconry’s authentic spirit strengthens, securing its position as a beacon for the sport across the globe and ensuring that future generations inherit not merely a pastime, but a profound expression of national identity.
Information sourced from the Emirates News Agency.