Promotional tour for Abu Dhabi 2008 hunting exhibition in Gulf states

Abu Dhabi 2008 is held under the auspices of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers' Club with the support of the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage Centre.

"The aim of this important Gulf tour is to hold a series of press conferences in collaboration with UAE embassies in GCC member states in order to publicise the activities of this major event which will be held in Abu Dhabi,"

said Mohammed Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Organising Committee and Board Member of Emirates Falconers' Club.

"The invitation is open to all GCC people who are interested in attending the exhibition and participating in its competitions, and to those who are accustomed to follow this annual cultural event which includes one of the world's most dazzling hobbies," added Mazrouei.

The GCC comprises Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman and UAE.

Mazrouei described the influx of tens of thousands of Arab Gulf visitors to the Emirati capital besides the GCC participation at exhibitors' level in the hunting exhibition as a strong motivation for the event.

"Hunting and equestrian are hobbies that have won Gulf people's hearts and minds and admiration since ancient times. The exhibition represents a renewed opportunity for hunting fans to exchange ideas and experiences, and find out the latest and newest in the world of falconry, hunting and equestrian," he noted.

Mazrouei pointed out that Abu Dhabi 2008 "enjoys a large Gulf participation, both at the level of exhibitors from companies, or from enthusiasts and fans interested in ancient sports heritage, besides participants in various competitions and exhibition activities."

He stressed that the vast Gulf participation in the forthcoming exhibition "reflects the depth of brotherly relations between Gulf states, as participating Gulf companies expressed satisfaction over the Organising Committee's care and support, which contributes to the concerted efforts of Gulf states to preserve our ancestors' sports, support scientific and research efforts in this area, implement awareness programmes for falconers and deepen the concept of sustainable hunting."

"Gulf exhibitors have expressed a strong desire to participate in the activities of this important event, which is the largest of its kind in the Arab Gulf region and the Middle East and the broader window to hunting and equestrian equipment market in the region," he added.

Mazrouei noted that the people of GCC states had been known for their fervent passion and deep attachment to falconry, equestrian and camel riding since ancient times, stressing the importance of cooperation between the GCC states in environmental protection and conservation, and the introduction of inherent Arabic customs and traditions to GCC youth.

The exhibition's 23,000 square metres have been fully booked by hundreds of exhibitors from around the world since last June. There are many companies that are on the waiting list, which reflects the ongoing success of this event at both the regional and global trade.