A Falconer’s Journey from Rome to Riyadh

The 2024 International Falcon Breeders Auction, hosted by the Saudi Falcons Club in Malham, is a melting pot of falconry enthusiasts from all over the world. In this diverse crowd is Emad, an Italian falconer with Pakistani roots whose passion for these majestic birds has led him to make Saudi Arabia his second home. "My falconry journey began in 2008, but financial challenges forced me to put my dream on hold," he said. "I finally realized my vision in 2016 by establishing a falcon farm in Rome. However, my life changed when I met Saudi falconer Barghash Al-Mansouri," he added. Al-Mansouri, a client of Emad's, invited him to visit Saudi Arabia and potentially relocate his business. After initial hesitation, Emad accepted the offer and moved to the Kingdom in 2022. "Saudi Arabia is a falconry paradise," Emad enthused. "The support provided by the Saudi Falcons Club to international falconers is unparalleled. This auction is testament to the Kingdom's commitment to preserving this rich heritage." The 20-day International Falcon Breeders Auction has become a global hub for falconry, attracting breeders and enthusiasts from over 16 countries. The auction showcases the best falcon breeds and underscores Saudi Arabia's position as a world leader in falconry. Source: Saudi Press Agency