If you rent a car for a week in Dubai, then it is worth diversifying your time as much as possible.
Falconry, an art deeply entangled with the very culture of the Bedouins, finds
a place in the ultramodern city known as Dubai. This centuries-long practice,
being highly essential to survival in a harsh desert-like environment, evolves
into a deep-rooted rich cultural heritage piece and one among the most iconic
attractions that every tourist comes back for.
History
Falconry has been an important part of life in the deserts
of the UAE for hundreds of years. The Bedouin people used trained falcons to
hunt effectively during winter months, helping them catch hares, birds, and
even gazelles. Today, falcons remain cultural icons, appearing on street signs,
local currency, and even as the national emblem of the UAE.
Modern Falconry Experiences
Dubai offers a number of falconry experiences for tourists
and enthusiasts:
1. Desert Safaris: Most operators of tours, therefore,
include a falconry demonstration in their desert safaris.
2. Live Interactive Shows: These allow visitors to
participate in the interactive sport of learning falconry from ancient times to
modern times.
3. Conservation Reserve Visits: A visit to the Dubai Desert
Conservation Reserve will allow interaction with falcons and other birds of
prey.
4. Hot Air Balloon Falconry: This is a special experience in
which guests can see an in-flight falcon show while riding in a hot air
balloon.
Ethical Considerations
Accredited falconry experiences in Dubai put the welfare of
the birds first. Falcons are checked by veterinarians regularly, and their
training methods mimic their natural hunting behaviors. Hoods, or
"burkas" in Arabic, are placed on the birds to keep them tranquil
during transportation.
Cultural Significance
In Dubai, falcons are more than just hunting birds; they are
often considered family members[3]. While hunting with falcons is now banned in
most areas of the UAE, the practice of keeping and training these majestic
birds continues as a beloved tradition.
A demonstration related to falconry in Dubai would present
any guest with a glimpse into the region's rich heritage since it expertly
merges the ancient art of the sport with the modern indulgence of the city.
Unique and unforgettable, it speaks volumes of the great bonding between the
people in Dubai and these birds of prey.
