Five Falcons Sold for SAR223,000 at Saudi Auction

Five falcons were sold for a total of SAR223,000 on the fifth night of the International Falcon Breeders Auction, organized by the National Center for Falcons in Malham, north of Riyadh, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The auction, which runs through August 25, brings together leading falcon breeding farms from around the world and attracts falconers and visitors interested in the heritage and culture of falconry.

Context and Background

Falconry has long been a cherished tradition in Saudi Arabia, deeply rooted in the Kingdom’s cultural heritage. The International Falcon Breeders Auction serves as a platform to preserve and promote this heritage, while also showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable practices. The event aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of fostering cultural enrichment and economic diversification, as it attracts international participants and boosts tourism.

Key Details

The evening’s sales included a pure gyr falcon chick from a Slovenian farm, which fetched SAR61,000 after bidding opened at SAR50,000. A gyr-saker chick from a Spanish farm sold for SAR40,000, while a mottled gyr chick from a Canadian farm sold for SAR42,000. Another gyr-saker chick, also from Spain, sold for SAR30,000, and a gyr-tiercel chick from an Irish farm concluded the night at SAR50,000. The auction features a fast-paced, live competitive bidding process that brings together Saudi and international falconers, breeders, and enthusiasts. It is broadcast on television and live-streamed on the National Center for Falcons’ social media accounts, allowing a global audience to participate virtually.

Implications and Impact

The International Falcon Breeders Auction not only supports the local economy by facilitating significant transactions but also enhances Saudi Arabia’s position as a global hub for falconry. By attracting top breeders and buyers from around the world, the event fosters international cultural exchange and reinforces the Kingdom’s reputation as a leader in preserving falconry traditions. The auction also contributes to the broader tourism sector, drawing visitors to Riyadh and the surrounding region.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This auction is a clear reflection of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting sustainable tourism, and diversifying the economy. By hosting world-class events like the International Falcon Breeders Auction, the Kingdom is not only celebrating its rich traditions but also positioning itself as a dynamic and forward-looking destination. As the auction continues through August 25, it is set to further cement Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in falconry and a vibrant hub for cultural exchange.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the total sales amount on the fifth night of the auction?

A1. The total sales amount on the fifth night was SAR223,000, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q2. Who organized the International Falcon Breeders Auction?

A2. The auction was organized by the National Center for Falcons, a Saudi institution dedicated to falconry.

Q3. Where is the auction being held?

A3. The auction is taking place in Malham, north of Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia.

Q4. When did the fifth night of the auction occur?

A4. The fifth night occurred on August 14, 2026, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Q5. How long will the auction run?

A5. The auction will run through August 25, providing a two-week platform for falcon sales.

Q6. What types of falcons were sold on the fifth night?

A6. The falcons sold included a pure gyr falcon, two gyr-saker chicks, a mottled gyr chick, and a gyr-tiercel chick.

Q7. Which countries did the falcons come from?

A7. The falcons came from Slovenia, Spain, Canada, and Ireland, showcasing international participation.

Q8. What was the highest price paid for a single falcon that night?

A8. The highest price was SAR61,000 for a pure gyr falcon chick from Slovenia.

Q9. What was the opening bid for the Slovenian falcon?

A9. The opening bid for the Slovenian gyr falcon chick was SAR50,000, before it sold for a higher amount.

Q10. How is the auction being broadcast to a wider audience?

A10. The auction is broadcast on television channels and live-streamed on the National Center for Falcons’ social media.

Q11. What is the purpose of the auction beyond sales?

A11. The auction aims to preserve falconry heritage and provide a trusted platform for elite falcon breeding and trade.

Q12. Who participates in the auction?

A12. The auction brings together Saudi and international falconers, breeders, and enthusiasts, along with leading farms.

Q13. Is this auction a recurring event?

A13. The event is an annual auction, with this year’s edition running from mid-August to August 25.

Q14. How does the auction support Saudi Arabia’s tourism goals?

A14. The auction attracts international visitors and media attention, boosting cultural tourism in Riyadh.

Q15. What is the significance of the National Center for Falcons?

A15. The center is a government entity dedicated to falconry conservation, research, and events.

Q16. Are there any conservation efforts associated with the auction?

A16. The auction promotes responsible falcon breeding and raises awareness about falcon conservation.

Q17. How does the auction align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A17. The auction supports Vision 2030 by preserving cultural heritage and fostering economic diversification.

Q18. Can international viewers participate in the bidding?

A18. While not specified, live streams may allow global participation, but bidding is likely conducted in person.

Q19. What is the role of the Saudi Press Agency in this event?

A19. The Saudi Press Agency reported on the auction, providing official coverage of the event.

Q20. What are the future prospects for the auction?

A20. The auction is expected to continue growing, enhancing Saudi Arabia’s global standing in falconry.

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