Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has praised the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) for its contribution to preserving UAE heritage and connecting traditional practices with contemporary innovation.
The Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club visited the 23rd edition of ADIHEX at ADNEC Abu Dhabi, where he toured a selection of national and international pavilions. Running until September 6 under the theme “Our Heritage, Our Pride,” this year’s exhibition is the largest in its history, in both space and participation.
Rather than focusing solely on hunting and equestrian products, ADIHEX 2026 presents a broad programme centred on heritage, culture, and outdoor pursuits. Exhibitors are showcasing specialised products and technologies across hunting, equestrianism, falconry, and related activities, while other projects address sustainability, environmental conservation, and innovation.
ADIHEX Places Heritage at the Centre
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan met exhibitors and participants from the UAE and overseas, receiving presentations on new products and developments within the sectors represented at the exhibition.
He later highlighted the broader cultural value of ADIHEX in a post on X, noting its development over more than two decades and its growing international profile.
“Today, I visited the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2026, which has established itself as a leading platform for preserving heritage and culture. This remarkable success, built over more than two decades, would not have been possible without the unlimited support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and his commitment to preserving our national heritage and safeguarding human heritage.”
Sheikh Hamdan also emphasised the event’s role in carrying forward cultural knowledge and traditions.
“During my visit, I toured several participating local and international pavilions. We take pride in the exhibition’s continued achievements and its leading global standing, as well as its role in preserving heritage and culture and passing our national heritage on to future generations.”
He described ADIHEX as a meeting point between established traditions and contemporary approaches, saying: “The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition … has become a successful model that brings together authenticity, modernity and innovation.”
The exhibition’s cultural function, he added, extends across generations and communities: “We are proud of this role, which contributes to safeguarding our national heritage — an important bridge connecting generations, while also fostering understanding and rapprochement among peoples and cultures.”
A Growing International Exhibition in Abu Dhabi
The scale of ADIHEX 2026 reflects its continued expansion. Organised by ADNEC Group, a subsidiary of Modon, in partnership with the Emirates Falconers’ Club, the exhibition is occupying all facilities at ADNEC Abu Dhabi for the first time.
The event runs for 10 consecutive days and brings together exhibitors, specialists, enthusiasts, and decision-makers from the UAE and international markets. Its growing participation has strengthened its position as a major platform for sectors connected to falconry, equestrianism, hunting, and heritage activities.
Beyond its commercial and specialist offerings, ADIHEX 2026 features a programme designed for a wider public, including heritage and cultural events, family activities, live demonstrations, interactive experiences, and specialised auctions.
Sheikh Hamdan was accompanied during his visit by several senior officials, including Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Shakhbout Bin Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hazza Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Rashid Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dr Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Lt. General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Majed Ali Al Mansoori, Nasser Mohammed Al Mansoori, and Hamad Matar Al Dhaheri.
With its expanded footprint and international participation, ADIHEX 2026 continues to position heritage alongside innovation, creating a platform where traditional UAE practices can be presented, discussed, and experienced within a contemporary exhibition environment.
