Falconry

Element Name

Falconry

Other Names

Falcon Breeding, Art of Hunting with Falcons

Practice Environment

Desert

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

Men

Heritage Domain/ Category

Social Practices and Festive Events

Element Type/ Subcategory

Traditional Sports

Current Status

Living heritage

Falconry is an ancient traditional practice based on training falcons and using them to hunt prey. Its roots extend back thousands of years in the Arabian Peninsula, where it was an essential means of hunting before the development of modern methods. Falconry is built on a close relationship between the falconer and the bird, with the falconer raising and training the falcon to hunt and return. Tools include leather gloves, the burqa, a hood covering the falcon’s eyes, and specialized training equipment. Falconry is a symbol of patience, skill and environmental knowledge.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Presence in Collective Memory and Intergenerational Cohesion: A cultural element is considered deeply rooted when it is held in the collective memory of the community and forms part of their daily experiences, occasions, and social relationships. It also contributes to strengthening the bonds of interaction between different generations, as it is transmitted from elders to younger members, providing a space for celebration and communal participation, thereby creating a sense of belonging and continuity.

02

Continuity and Intergenerational Transmission: The element is passed from one generation to the next, either orally through stories, songs, and narratives, or practically through training and hands-on practice. This living process ensures the element’s survival and development over time, while maintaining its connection to its cultural roots.