Falcon Sold for Record SAR400,000 at Saudi Auction

The 2024 International Falcon Breeders Auction, held at the Saudi Falcons Club headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, saw the sale of the year’s most expensive falcon for SAR400,000 on its ninth night. The auction, which brings together elite falcon breeders and enthusiasts from around the world, featured a peregrine chick named “Ultra White” presented by Pacific Northwest Falcons, an American falconry. Initially priced at SAR100,000, the bird fetched a record-breaking SAR400,000, underscoring the high value placed on top-tier falcons in the region.

Context and Background

The International Falcon Breeders Auction is a prestigious annual event organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, a key institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage of falconry in Saudi Arabia. The auction serves as a global platform for breeders to showcase championship-winning falcons, attracting participants and buyers from across the Kingdom and beyond. This year’s event features leading breeding farms from 19 countries, highlighting the international appeal and significance of the auction in the falconry community.

The auction’s ninth night also saw the sale of another peregrine chick, “Super White,” also from Pacific Northwest Falcons. Initially priced at SAR40,000, it was sold for SAR86,000. Together, the two falcons brought in SAR486,000 for the American breeder, demonstrating strong market demand for high-quality falcons.

Key Details

The auction is broadcast on television and live-streamed on social media platforms, allowing a global audience to witness the proceedings. This transparency and accessibility have helped elevate the event’s status as a renowned platform for elite falcons. The Saudi Falcons Club, which oversees the auction, aims to lead in the development and innovation of falconry, breeding, production, and care. The club also promotes cultural and economic support within the sector while raising environmental awareness about falcon conservation.

Pacific Northwest Falcons, the American breeder that presented the record-breaking falcon, is known for its high-quality peregrine falcons. The sale of “Ultra White” for SAR400,000 marks a significant achievement, reflecting the premium placed on exceptional breeding and genetic traits.

Implications and Impact

The record-breaking sale underscores the growing global interest in falconry and the economic potential of the falcon trade. For Saudi Arabia, the auction reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a leading hub for falconry, attracting international breeders and buyers. The event also supports the local economy by facilitating trade and fostering international partnerships. The participation of breeders from 19 countries highlights the auction’s role in promoting cross-cultural exchange and cooperation in the field of falconry.

The success of the auction also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing modernity. By integrating traditional practices with contemporary platforms like live streaming, the Kingdom showcases its commitment to cultural preservation and innovation.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The International Falcon Breeders Auction is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s dedication to Vision 2030, which emphasizes the preservation of cultural heritage, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability. By supporting initiatives like the Saudi Falcons Club, the Kingdom is fostering a vibrant cultural sector that contributes to the national economy and enhances its global standing. The auction not only celebrates the rich tradition of falconry but also positions Saudi Arabia as a leader in the field, aligning with the Vision’s goals of promoting a thriving society and a diversified economy.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the most expensive falcon sold at the 2024 International Falcon Breeders Auction?

A1. The most expensive falcon was a peregrine chick named “Ultra White,” sold for SAR400,000 on the ninth night of the auction, marking a record-breaking sale for the year.

Q2. Where was the auction held?

A2. The auction was held at the headquarters of the Saudi Falcons Club in Malham, north of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a venue dedicated to promoting falconry.

Q3. Who presented the record-breaking falcon?

A3. Pacific Northwest Falcons, an American falconry, presented the falcon “Ultra White,” which was among two falcons sold by the breeder during the event.

Q4. How much was the initial price of “Ultra White”?

A4. “Ultra White” was initially priced at SAR100,000 but was sold for SAR400,000, a significant premium reflecting its exceptional quality and desirability.

Q5. What was the total amount raised from the two falcons sold by Pacific Northwest Falcons?

A5. The two falcons, including “Ultra White” and another peregrine chick “Super White,” sold for a combined total of SAR486,000.

Q6. What was the sale price of “Super White”?

A6. “Super White” was initially priced at SAR40,000 and was sold for SAR86,000, demonstrating strong market demand for high-quality falcons.

Q7. When did the auction take place?

A7. The auction took place on the ninth night of the 2024 International Falcon Breeders Auction, which is held annually. The event was reported on August 21, 2024.

Q8. What is the primary purpose of the International Falcon Breeders Auction?

A8. The auction serves as a platform for elite falcons from around the world, bringing together breeders, producers, and enthusiasts to trade and showcase championship-winning breeds.

Q9. How is the auction broadcast to a wider audience?

A9. The auction is broadcast on television and live-streamed on social media platforms, allowing a global audience to follow the proceedings in real time.

Q10. How many countries are participating in the 2024 auction?

A10. Leading breeding farms from 19 countries are participating, highlighting the international scope and appeal of the event.

Q11. What is the role of the Saudi Falcons Club in organizing the auction?

A11. The Saudi Falcons Club organizes the auction, aiming to lead in falconry development, breeding, production, and care, while promoting cultural and economic support.

Q12. What specific breed was “Ultra White”?

A12. “Ultra White” was a peregrine chick, a species highly valued in falconry for its speed and hunting abilities.

Q13. What does the auction’s success indicate about Saudi Arabia’s role in falconry?

A13. The auction’s success reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading hub for falconry, attracting international breeders and buyers and fostering cultural exchange.

Q14. How does the auction contribute to environmental awareness?

A14. The Saudi Falcons Club promotes environmental awareness by educating about falcon conservation and responsible breeding, aligning with the auction’s goals.

Q15. What is the significance of the auction being live-streamed?

A15. Live-streaming increases transparency and accessibility, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage to a global audience and enhancing the event’s prestige.

Q16. How does the auction support economic development?

A16. The auction facilitates trade in high-value falcons, generating revenue and attracting international participation, which benefits the local economy.

Q17. What cultural value does falconry hold in Saudi Arabia?

A17. Falconry is a traditional practice deeply rooted in Saudi heritage, symbolizing hospitality, pride, and a connection to the desert environment.

Q18. How does the auction align with Vision 2030?

A18. The auction supports Vision 2030 by preserving cultural heritage, diversifying the economy, and promoting a vibrant society through cultural activities like falconry.

Q19. What future events are expected from the Saudi Falcons Club?

A19. While not specified, the club continues to host auctions and events, aiming to innovate and expand falconry’s reach, with the 2024 auction being a successful showcase.

Q20. Why is the International Falcon Breeders Auction important internationally?

A20. It brings together global breeders and buyers, promoting international cooperation in falconry and setting standards for breeding and conservation.

Reader Feedback

We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.

Name *

Message *

Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.