ADIHEX 2026 Brings Emirati Heritage, Falconry and Modern Experiences Together in Abu Dhabi
By Thasmiya
The **Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026** is bringing Emirati heritage to life through a mix of falconry, Arabian horses, Salukis, traditional crafts, live performances and modern interactive experiences.
Running at **ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until September 6**, the 23rd edition is the largest in the exhibition’s history and is designed to appeal not only to hunting and equestrian enthusiasts, but also families, children and visitors interested in UAE culture.
This year, visitors can move from watching falcons and Arabian horses to trying archery, shooting simulations, attending workshops and discovering new technology—all under one roof.
## **What is ADIHEX 2026?**
ADIHEX is an annual Abu Dhabi exhibition dedicated to hunting, equestrianism, falconry, outdoor activities, wildlife conservation and cultural heritage.
The 2026 edition runs from **August 28 to September 6 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi**, from **10am to 10pm daily**, with last entry at 9:30pm according to the official ADIHEX website.
The exhibition brings together **2,405 exhibitors and brands from 71 countries across 107,000 square metres**, according to ADIHEX’s current event figures.
## **Experience Emirati falconry traditions**
Falconry remains one of the biggest attractions at ADIHEX.
Visitors can get a closer look at falcons, learn about their care and importance within Emirati culture, explore specialised falconry products and take part in family-friendly falcon-handling experiences.
The exhibition also hosts prestigious **falcon auctions**, with live and online bidding. The remaining show-day auctions are scheduled for **September 5 and 6**.
For visitors unfamiliar with falconry, the exhibition provides an accessible introduction to a tradition deeply connected to life in the Arabian Peninsula.
## **Watch Arabian horses and equestrian shows**
Equestrian culture is another major part of the experience.
Visitors can see Arabian horses, live demonstrations and performances inside the exhibition’s arena while discovering equestrian equipment and services from participating brands.
The live displays help turn ADIHEX from a conventional exhibition into a more immersive cultural experience.
## **Discover the UAE’s Saluki heritage**
ADIHEX also introduces visitors to the Arabian Saluki, a breed that has historically played an important role in hunting and desert life.
Saluki-related displays help explain the breed’s connection to Bedouin heritage and why it remains culturally significant in the UAE.
Together, the horses, falcons and Salukis provide visitors with a closer look at the relationship between animals and traditional Emirati life.
## **Try archery and shooting simulations**
ADIHEX isn’t only about watching.
The 2026 features include an **archery range and shooting simulation**, allowing visitors to experience activities connected to the exhibition’s outdoor and sporting themes in a controlled environment.
These interactive elements add a modern dimension to the traditional hunting and outdoor experiences showcased throughout the event.
## **See police dog demonstrations**
Modern working-animal demonstrations are also part of this year’s programme.
Police dog performances demonstrate how trained K9 units support security and policing operations, adding another element beyond the traditional equestrian and falconry displays.
Gulf News reports that police dog demonstrations are among the activities attracting visitors at the 2026 exhibition.
## **Learn about cybersecurity and technology**
One of the more unexpected parts of ADIHEX 2026 is its focus on modern technology and public awareness.
Alongside traditional heritage activities, visitors can encounter cybersecurity awareness workshops, technology demonstrations and educational sessions.
This contrast is central to this year’s experience: centuries-old traditions are presented alongside technology and modern knowledge.
## **Learn Arabic coffee etiquette and Emirati customs**
ADIHEX also gives visitors opportunities to experience everyday elements of Emirati culture.
Interactive activities cover **Arabic coffee traditions, Emirati customs and authentic handicrafts**, helping younger visitors and international guests understand the meaning behind practices they may regularly see in the UAE.
Rather than simply displaying heritage objects, these activities encourage visitors to participate and learn.
## **Workshops and activities for children**
ADIHEX has expanded its family offering for 2026.
Children and families can participate in creative workshops, falcon handling, art activities and Emirati etiquette sessions designed to combine entertainment with cultural education.
The **Young Hunters & Riders Village** is also among the exhibition’s highlighted features this year.
This makes ADIHEX accessible even to families who have little previous knowledge of hunting, falconry or equestrian sports.
## **Explore traditional arts and crafts**
Visitors can browse Emirati and regional arts, crafts and handmade products while meeting artisans and businesses connected to heritage industries.
The marketplace extends beyond traditional handicrafts to include collectibles, clothing, outdoor equipment and specialist products.
For visitors interested in shopping, ADIHEX describes its marketplace as offering everything from artisan knives and rare collectibles to traditional garments.
## **Camping, caravans and outdoor equipment**
ADIHEX also has a significant outdoor-lifestyle component.
The exhibition’s 15 sectors cover areas including hunting and camping equipment, RVs and caravans, outdoor leisure vehicles, fishing and marine sports, equestrianism, falconry, arts and crafts and environmental and cultural heritage preservation.
Visitors can therefore explore modern camping technology and outdoor equipment alongside traditional desert practices.
## **International culture comes to Abu Dhabi**
ADIHEX isn’t limited to Emirati culture.
With participants from **71 countries**, the exhibition provides a platform for international traditions, products and performances.
The programme also includes Japanese cultural performances, adding another international dimension to the event.
This combination makes ADIHEX as much about cultural exchange as it is about preserving UAE traditions.
## **When and where is ADIHEX 2026?**
**Dates:** August 28 to September 6, 2026
**Venue:** ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
**Opening hours:** 10am to 10pm daily
**Last entry:** 9:30pm
Visitors should check the official schedule before travelling because individual shows, workshops, auctions and arena activities take place at specific times.
Check the official ADIHEX 2026 website and tickets
## **What should you wear?**
ADIHEX encourages **traditional attire or smart casual clothing**.
The official visitor guidelines state that shorts, sleeveless tops and revealing clothing are not permitted, in keeping with the event’s cultural standards.
Visitors should also wear comfortable footwear because the exhibition covers a very large indoor area.
## **Is ADIHEX worth visiting with children?**
Yes. This year’s programme has specifically expanded its family and educational experiences.
Falcon encounters, horses, creative workshops, cultural activities, the Young Hunters & Riders Village and interactive demonstrations make it possible for children to experience UAE heritage in a more engaging way than simply viewing museum exhibits.
ADIHEX says its family activities are intended to help younger generations connect with cultural values while combining learning and entertainment.
## **Why this matters**
ADIHEX 2026 demonstrates how Emirati heritage can be preserved without being treated as something belonging only to the past.
Falconry, Arabian horses, Salukis, Arabic coffee, traditional craftsmanship and desert culture sit alongside cybersecurity, simulations, modern outdoor equipment and interactive learning.
For UAE residents and visitors, the exhibition provides an opportunity to experience traditions that have shaped the country while seeing how those traditions continue to evolve.
And with ADIHEX 2026 ending on **September 6**, there are only a few days left to experience this year’s edition.
## **Source Credits**
Information source/resource owners: ADIHEX, ADNEC Group, Emirates Falconers’ Club, Emirates News Agency (WAM), Gulf News and Experience Abu Dhabi.
## **Image Preview & Credits**
**Falconry at ADIHEX:** Official exhibition visual shown above. **Image credit/resource owner:** ADIHEX / ADNEC Group.
**ADIHEX exhibition and equestrian experience:** Official exhibition visual shown above. **Image credit/resource owner:** ADIHEX / ADNEC Group.
**Arabian horse display:** Official ADIHEX visual shown above. **Image credit/resource owner:** ADIHEX / ADNEC Group.
**Falcon Auction:** Official ADIHEX 2026 visual shown above. **Image credit/resource owner:** ADIHEX / ADNEC Group.
Open ADIHEX official media and event website