King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival Begins Today with Over SAR36 Million in Prizes

Riyadh, December 03, 2024, SPA -- This year’s King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, begins today and runs through December 19 at the club's headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh.
With prizes exceeding SAR36 million, the festival features the largest prize pool in its history, attracting falconers from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and abroad.
Participants will compete in 138 rounds across the Al-Mellwah (falcon racing) and Mazayen (falcon beauty pageant) competitions, including 49 qualifying heats for local participants, six rounds for internationally bred falcons, a round for young falconers, and 73 heats for the King Abdulaziz Cups and King’s Sword, open to both local and international competitors.
For the first time, the festival introduces a dedicated women's Al-Mellwah race on December 13, allowing women to participate by releasing their trained falcons to compete for top honors.
The Saudi Falcons Club announced the registration periods for participants. Local falconers registered from November 28 to 30, while international participants can register from December 4 to 9. Registrations for the Mazayen competition will take place from December 7 to 13.
The festival, recognized as the largest global gathering of falcons, secured three Guinness World Records for the number of falcons participating. It serves as a platform to bring together elite falconers, preserve the cultural heritage of falconry, and ensure the sustainability of this traditional Arab practice for future generations.
In addition to competitions, the festival offers a variety of activities, including interactive experiences aimed at educating and engaging younger generations in falconry.
Visitors can also explore dedicated pavilions showcasing falconry gear, hunting equipment, and trip essentials, blending authenticity with adventure.
The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to preserving its cultural traditions, fostering national pride, and advancing falconry as a globally recognized heritage sport aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
-- SPA