Saudi falconry exhibition opens in Riyadh with 254 exhibitors

The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026 has opened in Malham, near Riyadh, with 254 exhibitors and brands from 20 countries across 197,000 square metres. The event blends falconry with outdoor pursuits, heritage programming and commercial activity, with the previous edition drawing more than 700,000 visitors.

Why it matters: - The exhibition puts Saudi falconry heritage in front of a global audience while linking it to outdoor sport, tourism and commercial activity. - The scale of the event shows how traditional cultural programming is being packaged for broader audiences, including UK visitors interested in countryside pursuits and specialist equipment. - The previous edition’s attendance and sales point to the exhibition’s growing economic footprint.

What happened: - The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026 opened in Malham and runs until 10 October. - The exhibition features 254 exhibitors and brands from 20 countries across 197,000 square metres. - The programme brings together falconry, craftsmanship, hunting, equestrian activities, travel and adventure. - The exhibition also includes 4WD experiences, fishing, hiking, safari activities, archery, cultural performances and workshops.

The details: - Talal bin Abdulaziz Al-Shammisi, chief executive officer of the National Center for Falcons, said the exhibition continues to expand while keeping falconry and its heritage at the heart of the experience. - Al-Shammisi said this year’s programme was designed for different audiences, including visitors interested in falcons, cultural heritage, adventure, knowledge and commercial opportunities. - Ahmed Fahad Al-Hababi, deputy chief executive officer of the National Center for Falcons, said the mix of activities and international participation reflects the exhibition’s continued development as a platform where heritage meets contemporary cultural, commercial and entertainment experiences. - The Melwah Race runs from 4 to 9 October across 12 heats, with SAR723,000 in prizes. - At-Turaif District in Diriyah forms part of the cultural programme. - The previous edition attracted more than 700,000 visitors and generated sales exceeding SAR91 million.

Between the lines: - The exhibition is no longer just a niche heritage showcase; the programming suggests a push to widen its appeal across sport, tourism, retail and family entertainment. - The inclusion of international exhibitors and multiple activity tracks suggests the event is being positioned as both a cultural platform and a market for specialized outdoor products and experiences. - The UK framing signals an effort to connect Saudi heritage with overseas audiences that may already understand falconry and countryside traditions.

What's next: - The Melwah Race will continue through 9 October. - The full exhibition remains open until 10 October in Malham. - The National Center for Falcons will continue its broader work to develop Saudi Arabia’s falconry sector, preserve its cultural heritage and support research and international cooperation. - More information is available through the exhibition's announcement source.