Riyadh, December 20, 2024 – The Saudi Falconry Club concluded the highly anticipated King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival 2024, which took place from December 3 to 19 at the club’s headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh. The event showcased an extraordinary celebration of falconry heritage and culture, attracting widespread participation from across the globe.
With a total prize pool exceeding SAR 36 million, the festival solidified its position as one of the most prestigious and lucrative falconry competitions in the world. The prize offerings set a new benchmark, being the largest in the history of the festival.
This year’s festival drew 1,032 falconers from nine countries, including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar, Syria, Italy, and Ireland. Among the participants were 160 international falconers, emphasizing the festival’s global appeal and reputation. The participants showcased 3,322 falcons, with 49 young falconers demonstrating the next generation's passion for this time-honored tradition.
The festival reached its crescendo with the King’s Sword competition, the most challenging and high-stakes segment of the Melwah competition. This segment featured two rounds, with a combined prize of SAR 1.85 million—equivalent to SAR 925,000 per round—making it the centerpiece of the event and a thrilling conclusion for attendees and participants alike.
Talal Al-Shumaisi, Chief Executive of the Saudi Falcons Club, expressed deep gratitude to the Kingdom’s leadership for their unwavering support and commitment to preserving and promoting the falconry heritage. He highlighted the vision and directives of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, who serves as the general supervisor of the club.
Al-Shumaisi also commended the enduring support of Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, the chairman of the club’s board of directors. He lauded their efforts in elevating this cherished aspect of Saudi culture, which resonates deeply with the people of the Kingdom.
The King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival 2024 not only celebrated a rich cultural legacy but also fostered international collaboration, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s dedication to preserving its heritage while engaging a global audience. As the festival concluded, it left an indelible mark on the falconry community and reaffirmed its place as a hallmark of tradition and excellence.
