ABU DHABI: A rare falcon named the "Qarmousha Pure Ultra White" sold for a record Dh1.5 million (about $408,000) during the fifth auction round at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, known as ADIHEX, as falconers from around the world competed for the bird's striking plumage and rare build.
The sale marked the highest price recorded so far at this year's 23rd edition of ADIHEX, held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al-Dhafra Region and chairman of the Emirates Falconers Club.
The auction is part of the biggest lineup of sales in the exhibition's history, staged under the theme "A Legacy of Pride" by Adnec Group, a Modon company, alongside the Emirates Falconers Club.
Qarmousha, bred by Mark Moglich Falcon Farm in the United States, the falcon weighs 1 kilogram and measures 16.5 inches in both length and wingspan. Its rare white coloring and strong physical traits drew heavy interest from top breeders and buyers, quickly making it the talk of the exhibition floor and sending word of the sale racing across falconry circles worldwide.
Humaid Matar Al-Dhaheri, group CEO of Adnec Group, said the strength of this year's auctions reflects the international reputation ADIHEX has built over more than two decades. He said the auctions give breeders a stage to showcase top bloodlines while supporting quality and sustainability across the sport.
This year's exhibition drew 55 falcon breeding and care farms from the UAE and abroad, up 20% from last year. Nine farms are taking part for the first time, a sign of the event's growing pull with international falconers.
Al Dhaheri added that the exhibition also works to protect falconry traditions for future generations, cementing Abu Dhabi's status as a global hub for the sport and its heritage.
ADIHEX continues to bring together a diverse range of experiences that celebrate tradition, showcase culture, and connect global communities. From world-class exhibitions and live demonstrations to interactive family attractions and heritage showcases every visitor will discover something unique. It step's into a destination where heritage and innovation come together to inspire, engage, and connect.
The exhibition is being held at Adnec Centre Abu Dhabi and continues through September 6, with more auctions expected before it closes.
