Falconry sustains Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity through traditional skills, conservation and intergenerational knowledge.
Falconry remains an important part of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, reflecting the longstanding relationship between the Saudi people and falcons. Dating back to ancient times, the tradition has been passed down through generations, with falcons historically accompanying ancestors on hunting expeditions and nomadic journeys. The birds have come to symbolise courage and patience, while the skills of raising and training them continue to preserve an important aspect of the Kingdom’s history.
The relationship between falconers and their birds develops through years of care, training and daily companionship. Falconers regard their birds as partners, dedicating considerable time and effort to maintaining their health and well-being. This close relationship reflects the tradition’s cultural and social importance within Saudi society.
Caring for a falcon begins with providing a suitable environment, managing its diet and monitoring its health. Training requires patience, expertise and an understanding of the bird’s behaviour, particularly when teaching it to respond to calls and return to its owner. These specialised practices have been refined through generations of experience.
For many falconers, daily routines revolve around feeding, training and caring for their birds. Falconry seasons also provide opportunities to reconnect with ancestral practices and the values associated with the tradition, including patience, precision and careful observation.
Passing on this knowledge to younger generations remains an important part of preserving Saudi Arabia’s falconry heritage. Falconers introduce their children to training grounds and falconry events, where they learn about different falcon species, their characteristics and proper handling techniques. These experiences help maintain traditional knowledge and encourage younger generations to remain connected to the Kingdom’s cultural identity.
Institutional support has also contributed to the preservation and promotion of falconry in Saudi Arabia. The National Center for Falcons organises festivals, auctions, competitions and specialised events that support falconers and showcase the cultural importance of these birds. Such initiatives also promote responsible falconry practices, falcon conservation and the long-term sustainability of the tradition.
Through continued practice, education and institutional support, falconry remains a living expression of Saudi Arabia’s heritage, connecting the Kingdom’s history, environment and cultural traditions with successive generations.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
