ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme for Emirati houbara breeders at ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed for individuals managing existing houbara breeding projects and those planning to establish new facilities. It offers participants access to expert knowledge, hands-on training, and technical support. The program emphasizes responsible breeding techniques, animal well-being, biosecurity measures, and best management practices across breeding operations.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the initiative, handling its scientific and technical elements. Ekthar also functions as the strategic partner for IFHC centers, programs, and projects within the UAE and on the global stage. The initiative leverages Ekthar’s conservation expertise and operational experience to benefit participating breeders. The program was unveiled during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, which is a gathering point for falconers, breeders, and organizations involved in wildlife, heritage, and conservation efforts.
Participants who wish to join must undergo a structured assessment process prior to acceptance. This evaluation aims to determine their readiness and pinpoint areas where additional support may be necessary. Registration alone does not ensure entry into the initiative; applicants must complete the assessment to be officially admitted. This process creates a clear pathway for established breeders and those aiming to develop new houbara breeding facilities.
Training prerequisites define eligibility
Selected applicants and their teams will benefit from specialized education provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The training includes workshops, courses, and other educational activities covering core topics such as responsible houbara breeding, facility management, animal welfare, biosecurity, and operational best practices. Those who finish the relevant training modules will receive certification, while ongoing technical support will be offered to assist breeders as they expand or refine their operations.
In addition, qualifying participants may be granted access to breeding birds on a right-to-use basis after completing necessary assessments and training. This component complements the educational and technical guidance aspects of the support program. IFHC emphasized that the initiative capitalizes on its extensive breeding and conservation knowledge to assist participating breeders. Mohamed Almotawa AlDhaheri, acting director general of IFHC, stated that the program links houbara breeding with responsible practices, knowledge, and operational standards.
Conservation expertise enhances breeder development
The new initiative broadens IFHC’s engagement with those involved in houbara breeding and related cultural traditions. With over forty years of experience in houbara conservation through research, captive breeding, releases, and international collaboration, IFHC continues to be a key player. In 2025, the organization reported an annual production of 107,808 houbara birds, and a cumulative total of 996,064 birds produced since the program’s inception, with 598,314 released across 18 countries within the species’ native range.
Breeders interested in participating can register either through the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or directly via the IFHC and Ekthar booths at ADIHEX 2026. The event served as the official launch venue and provided direct interaction with specialists involved in the program’s implementation. After registration, applicants must proceed through assessment and acceptance stages before receiving support. Successful candidates will then have access to training, technical guidance, and, where eligible, breeding birds under the support initiative’s right-to-use agreement.