Qassim: Falcons hold a profound significance in Arab culture, tied to the lifestyle and heritage of the Arab world. Renowned for their extraordinary speed and sharp senses, these birds embody courage and strength.
According to Saudi Press Agency, falconry has long been important to Arabs, encompassing several key stages. The first stage involves the falconer carefully selecting birds that exhibit the desired traits of speed and strength. In the second stage, these birds undergo training to respond to specific commands during hunting, which includes flying swiftly, returning promptly to the falconer's hand, and skillfully swooping down on prey. This training process is both intricate and demanding, requiring a high level of expertise. To ensure the falcons' health and well-being, they must receive attentive medical care, proper nutrition, and a safe environment.
The Falcons Festival in Al-Asyah Governorate, in Qassim, is a vibrant gathering for falconers, where they compete in races featuring their carefully trained falcons, each striving for top positions. In addition to the thrilling competitions, the festival features a bustling market dedicated to selling falcons, attracting enthusiasts and buyers alike.
In an interview with the Saudi Press Agency, falconer Ahmed Al-Suhail shared that he inherited falconry from his father and spent 18 years learning the intricacies of this craft.
Raddad Al-Armani, an enthusiast of falconry, expressed that he came to the event to enjoy the competitive and exciting atmosphere among falconers.