ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme aimed at Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. This Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed to assist those managing current houbara production operations as well as individuals planning to establish new facilities. It provides participants with expert insights, hands-on training, and technical support. The initiative emphasizes responsible breeding techniques, animal welfare, biosecurity protocols, and effective management practices throughout houbara breeding activities.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the program and its scientific and technical elements. Ekthar also acts as the strategic partner managing IFHC centers, programs, and projects both within the UAE and internationally. Drawing from their conservation and operational expertise, Ekthar aims to support participating breeders effectively. The initiative was unveiled at the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, which gathers falconers, breeders, and organizations dedicated to wildlife, heritage, and conservation efforts.
Prospective participants must undergo a detailed evaluation process before joining the initiative. This assessment will determine their readiness and highlight areas where additional support might be needed. Registration alone does not guarantee acceptance; applicants are required to complete the assessment to gain final approval. This process creates a clear pathway for both experienced breeders and those preparing to start new houbara breeding ventures.
Training programs establish criteria for entry
Breeders and their teams who are accepted will benefit from specialized training provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The program includes workshops, courses, and practical sessions covering responsible houbara breeding, facility management, animal welfare, biosecurity, and operational best practices. Those who successfully complete the training will earn certificates, while ongoing technical support will assist breeders as they develop or enhance their operations.
Participants may also be eligible to receive breeding birds on a right to use basis following the completion of assessments and training. This component complements the educational efforts and continuous technical guidance offered through the support scheme. IFHC emphasized that the initiative leverages its extensive breeding and conservation experience to benefit participating breeders. Mohamed Almotawa AlDhaheri, acting director general of IFHC, stated that the program links houbara breeding with knowledge, responsibility, and proven operational standards.
Expertise in conservation enhances breeder capacity
The new scheme broadens IFHC’s engagement with individuals involved in houbara breeding and related cultural traditions. The organization has over forty years of experience in houbara conservation, encompassing research, breeding, releases, and international partnerships. In 2025, IFHC reported an annual production of 107,808 houbara birds, with a total of 996,064 birds produced since the program’s inception. Of these, 598,314 have been released across 18 countries within the species’ native habitat.
Breeders interested in participating can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or meet representatives from IFHC and Ekthar at ADIHEX 2026. The event served as the official launch venue and provided direct access to the specialists involved in implementing the program. Following registration, applicants must go through the assessment and approval process before receiving support. Qualified breeders will then have access to training, technical guidance, and, where applicable, breeding birds under the program’s right to use arrangement.