The Saudi Falcon Club’s International Falcon Breeders Auction 2026 saw five falcons sold for a total of 223,000 Saudi Riyals on its fifth night. Held at the Club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, the auction runs until August 25 and features leading production farms from around the world, attracting falconers and enthusiasts. This event underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving the heritage of falconry while fostering international cooperation.
Context and Background
The International Falcon Breeders Auction is a key initiative by the Saudi Falcon Club, operating under the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture. It aims to provide a trusted and unique platform for elite falcons from around the globe, enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a hub for falconry heritage and trade. The auction supports the preservation of falconry traditions, a vital part of Saudi cultural identity, and aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of promoting cultural heritage and sustainable practices.
Key Details
The fifth night featured five falcons from various international farms. The first falcon, a pure Gyr falcon chick from a Slovenian farm, started at 50,000 SAR and sold for 61,000 SAR. The second, a Gyr-Peregrine hybrid chick from Spain, fetched 40,000 SAR. A Gyr hybrid (Malthooth) from Canada sold for 42,000 SAR, followed by another Spanish Gyr-Peregrine at 30,000 SAR. The final falcon, a Gyr Teba from Ireland, sold for 50,000 SAR, bringing the night’s total to 223,000 SAR. The auction is broadcast live on TV channels and social media, ensuring wide reach.
International Impact
The auction’s international participation highlights the Kingdom’s growing influence in the global falconry community. By facilitating direct trade between local and international breeders, the event strengthens diplomatic and economic ties, showcasing Saudi Arabia as a leader in cultural preservation. The presence of leading global farms underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to maintaining high standards in falcon breeding and trade, while also providing a market for rare and prized birds.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This auction is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage as part of Vision 2030. By supporting falconry, the Kingdom ensures the continuation of a tradition that holds significant cultural and historical value. The event also promotes tourism and economic diversification, attracting global participants and visitors, thereby contributing to the Kingdom’s broader goals of cultural exchange and sustainable development. Through such initiatives, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its global role and commitment to fostering international ties.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the International Falcon Breeders Auction 2026?
A1. It is an auction organized by the Saudi Falcon Club to sell elite falcons from global farms. It serves as a platform for falconers and breeders, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to the falconry heritage.
Q2. Where is the auction being held?
A2. The auction takes place at the Saudi Falcon Club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Q3. When did the fifth night of the auction take place?
A3. The fifth night occurred on August 14, 2026, corresponding to 1 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1448 AH.
Q4. How much did the falcons sell for in total on this night?
A4. The five falcons were sold for a combined total of 223,000 Saudi Riyals.
Q5. Which country did the first falcon come from?
A5. The first falcon, a pure Gyr chick, was from a Slovenian farm.
Q6. What was the starting bid for the first falcon?
A6. The bidding for the first falcon started at 50,000 Saudi Riyals, and it was eventually sold for 61,000 SAR.
Q7. Which type of falcon was sold for 40,000 SAR?
A7. The second falcon, a Gyr-Peregrine hybrid chick from a Spanish farm, was sold for 40,000 SAR.
Q8. From which country did the third falcon come?
A8. The third falcon, a Gyr hybrid (Malthooth) chick, was from a Canadian farm and sold for 42,000 SAR.
Q9. What was the final falcon of the night and its price?
A9. The fifth falcon, a Gyr Teba chick from an Irish farm, was sold for 50,000 SAR.
Q10. How long will the auction continue?
A10. The auction continues until August 25, 2026.
Q11. What is the purpose of this auction?
A11. The auction provides a trusted and unique platform for top falcons, bringing together falconers, producers, and enthusiasts from Saudi Arabia and worldwide, preserving the heritage.
Q12. How can audiences watch the auction?
A12. The auction is broadcast live via television channels and the social media accounts of the Saudi Falcon Club.
Q13. Why is the auction significant for Saudi Arabia?
A13. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s leadership in falconry heritage and supports Vision 2030 goals by promoting culture, tourism, and international cooperation.
Q14. Which Saudi entity organizes the auction?
A14. The Saudi Falcon Club, a national center dedicated to falconry, organizes the auction in Malham.
Q15. Are there falcons from Saudi Arabia?
A15. While the fifth night featured international farms, the auction includes participation from leading production farms globally, and Saudi farms are expected to participate in other nights.
Q16. What is the role of falconry in Saudi culture?
A16. Falconry is a deeply rooted tradition in Saudi Arabia, symbolizing heritage and pride, and is being preserved through such initiatives.
Q17. How does the auction contribute to the economy?
A17. The auction drives economic activity, attracting international buyers and tourists, and supports the growth of the falcon breeding industry.
Q18. What makes this auction unique?
A18. It is a competitive, fast-paced auction with a wide variety of elite falcons, highlighting the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for falconry.
Q19. Does the auction align with Vision 2030?
A19. Yes, it aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting cultural heritage, tourism, and economic diversification.
Q20. Where can one find more information about the auction?
A20. For more details, one can follow the Saudi Falcon Club’s social media channels or visit the official website of the National Center for Falcons.
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