Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) is celebrating not only Emirati culture and heritage but also showcases international cultures and traditions. With participation from 68 countries, the event highlights its global appeal and offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon Holding company, in collaboration with the Emirates Falconers’ Club, ADIHEX 2025 showcases traditional Emirati practices such as falconry, camel racing, Saluki hunting, and horse riding through immersive zones and live displays for all attendees.
According to Emirates News Agency, ADIHEX 2025 is aligned with the theme ‘The Legacy Lives On’, aiming to inspire and educate audiences of all ages about the UAE’s deep-rooted heritage and Emirati etiquette. Each event highlights the historical significance of these traditions in Emirati culture. The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), as the Knowledge Partner, offers sessions and lectures on the historical significance of hunting and equestrianism in shaping Emirati national identity. Central to ECSSR’s participation is the Emirates Leadership Encyclopaedia – Al Ittihad, ensuring the country’s rich traditions are passed down through generations.
Within the Preservation of Culture and Heritage sector, the Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre offers visitors interactive activities dedicated to celebrating heritage traditions such as falconry, hunting, and Salukis. Meanwhile, the National Academy for Childhood Development features engaging workshops promoting childhood development, Arabic language, identity, and cultural pride. The Abu Dhabi Sports Council provides hands-on experiences in archery, fencing, polo, marine sports, and falconry, alongside displays of traditional handicrafts.
As the Heritage Partner, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority provides an immersive platform for families and children, featuring interactive learning platforms, traditional clothing displays, and a virtual tour of the Al Dhafra festival. Visitors can also engage with the Million’s Poet Programme and experience the atmosphere of a traditional Emirati Majlis.
ADIHEX features significant international participation, including 63 exhibitors and brands from Japan. The INDEX stand showcases traditional Japanese culture with displays such as falconry shows, falconry equipment making, tea ceremonies, and musical performances. At the INPEX stand, Shinsuke Ohwaku demonstrates the crafting process of the Japanese Katana sword, highlighting the stages required to achieve perfection. Additionally, the stand presents Amezaiku, the Japanese folk art of sculpting candy into animal shapes and characters, led by master artist Takahiro Mizuki.
Several African countries offer unforgettable journeys and adventures at the event. South Africa is represented by 34 exhibiting brands, with Sand River Valley offering a bespoke safari experience that includes the renowned Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. The Lotsane Signature Collection from Botswana showcases five-star lodge experiences in pristine wilderness areas, where travelers can enjoy wildlife, game drives, photo safaris, and historical excursions in some of the world’s most beautiful natural settings.