RIYADH: Shipments of falcons have begun arriving in Saudi Arabia ahead of the International Falcon Breeders Auction, as organizers prepare for the annual event.
The auction, organized by the National Center for Falcons, will run from Aug. 5- 25 at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The event will strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for falcon breeding and trade.
Among the first shipments are birds from Hermann Falcons and AW Falcons of Austria, Naseem Bahrain of the Netherlands, RO Falcons of Romania, and Falco Ireland of Ireland. Additional shipments from participating breeding farms are expected in the coming days.
This year's auction introduces a new feature, allowing only falcons sold through the auction to compete in all local and international chick-racing categories, expanding opportunities for breeders, investors and buyers.
Under the new rules, every falcon purchased through the auction will be eligible to compete, subject to regulations. Buyers will also have the chance to enter competitions organized or co-organized by the National Center for Falcons, with total prize money of up to SR50 million ($13.3 million).
