Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club, The 20th edition of Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) will be held from 2-8 September 2023 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the theme “Sustainability and Heritage… A Reborn Aspiration “.
The 19th edition of ADIHEX, organized by The Emirates Falconers Club (EFC), achieved a qualitative leap and was described as the largest and most amazing edition in its history, as it was attended by more than 900 exhibitors and brands from 58 countries, who achieved direct sales which exceeded AED 65 million; and a qualitative growth of 20% in terms of the total area of the event, which exceeded 60 thousand square meters. Besides, the number of visitors exceeded expectations; over the 7 days, ADIHEX attracted more than 150,000 visitors from different countries of the world, who came to explore and obtain the latest products and innovations presented by exhibitors in the 11 sectors of the event and enjoy the atmosphere of live performances, competitions and learning, as well as the beautiful cultural and heritage events.
The Higher Organizing Committee emphasized that the confidence of exhibitors and visitors in ADIHEX, represents the basis for the growth and continuity of the regional and global success of this international event. This in turn increases our determination to intensify all possible efforts to continue on the path of excellence and distinction in the upcoming editions.
The last edition’s participants, including exhibitors, sponsors and supporters, unanimously agreed on the importance of attending such specialized events, which enabled them to achieve record sales, exchange their experiences and ideas, meet partners and customers, make strong deals and build commercial relations between distributors and dealers. They affirm that the annual participation in the next edition of ADIHEX will certainly and always be on their business agenda, recognizing its position after two decades of success, challenge and competition as a global platform that is the largest in the Middle East and Africa in the field of specialized exhibition sectors.
Buyers and visitors expressed their appreciation for the global level reached by the exhibition, as well as its attraction to dozens of countries and hundreds of pavilions, the diversity and distinction of the displayed products and innovations, and its unique offers and the profitable business atmosphere, as the exhibitors have achieved large direct sales during their participation, in addition to the event pleasant and exciting atmosphere.
The last edition of ADIHEX hosted 127 speakers who participated in presenting their techniques, skills, visions, and professional experience through 134 specialized workshops that represented a source of knowledge, awareness and a means for business success and development. The workshops were categorized into four educational platforms; i.e., sustainability, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, and connection with nature.
More than 150 live performances of birds of prey, salukis and police dogs were also held, along with interesting heritage and sports shows that enhanced the exhibition’s attractiveness. The event educational activities and innovative artistic, cultural and scientific competitions attracted hundreds of competitors. The auctions of camels, falcons and horses were among the noticeable features of the event and a valuable opportunity to get acquainted closely with some of the most important pillars of Emirati and Arab heritage and authentic traditions.
In cooperation with UNESCO, the International Association for Falconry and Conservation of Birds of Prey, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the ADIHEX associated conference was held under the title “The Significance of Indigenous People and Local Communities in Linking Intangible Cultural Heritage and Wildlife Conservation”.
Several B2B activities were launched to support SMEs and Start-ups by facilitating professional commercial meetings between buyers and exhibitors to enhance their participation and ensure their success, and to highlight the brands of the participating companies through the exhibition’s extensive marketing and promotional campaigns.
The exhibition has a great position among professionals, enthusiasts, and amateurs of all kinds of hunting sports. ADIHEX was honoured by the visit of their Highnesses, dignitaries, decision-makers, merchants and visitors with high purchasing power from the UAE and the GCC countries, who represented a sign of great success for the exhibition and for the participants whose products, offerings and services varied, meeting all aspirations and interests.