File photo / QNA
Doha: In Qatar, falconry is more than a sport. It is a centuries-old tradition that continues to soar, linking the nation's Bedouin past with its modern cultural identity.
Once practiced out of necessity for survival and hunting, falconry holds a special place in Qatar's history. For Bedouins, falcons were once indispensable for hunting in the desert's harsh environment. Over generations, this necessity evolved into a symbol of patience, precision, and pride.
At the heart of Doha, the Falcon Souq, located beside the landmark Souq Waqif, serves as a living museum of this tradition. The market draws both locals and tourists eager to admire the birds, watch skilled trainers at work, and learn about their remarkable abilities. Shopkeepers explain the differences between species and demonstrate traditional handling techniques.
"Falconry and hunting are ancient hobbies passed down from fathers to their children. It is both a sport and a tradition," said Khalid Mohamed, manager of one of Qatar's falcon centers. "In the past, falcons were mainly used for hunting, but today most are trained for competitions and festivals that celebrate cultural and recreational heritage."
In recent years, falconry in Qatar has embraced modern science. Specialized breeding centers now replace wild catching, producing lineages with superior skills and physical traits. These centers employ incubation systems and genetic tracking to ensure healthy breeding.
File photo / QNA
"In earlier times, falcons were raised and trained to hunt in the wild. Now everything happens in controlled environments, using specialized technology that improves both the bird's health and performance," Khalid explained.
The nearby Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital is one of the region's most advanced facilities, offering checkups, surgeries, and microchipping to ensure professional care. Each falcon has its own identification and health card -- required for competitions or travel with a "falcon passport."
"Anyone who owns a falcon must understand the bird's health, behavior, and proper maintenance. But things have become much easier thanks to specialized hospitals and centers that diagnose and treat falcon diseases quickly." Khalid added.
Beyond trading falcons, the souq also houses skilled artisans who produce the traditional equipment that supports the sport. Leather craftsmen spend years perfecting the art of hand-stitching burga (falcon hoods), gloves, and perches using fine camel or goat leather.
"I have worked in this industry for 10 years," Mohamed, a craftsman, said while polishing a handmade hood. "Every piece must be precise. These are not just products, they are part of the falcon's identity."
In Qatar, the Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival, known locally as Marmi, is one of the most highly anticipated sporting events each winter, featuring categories such as Al Mazayen (beauty contest), Hadad Al-Tahadi (hunting challenge), and speed races.
Winners receive prize money of up to 700,000 Qatari riyals (about 192,000 US dollars) for first place in the beauty category, while other contests award as much as 400,000 Qatari riyals in cash, and even luxury vehicles.
The growing popularity of falconry has driven up the prices of falcons. According to shopkeepers at falcon Souq, a young falcon typically costs around 2,000 Qatari riyals, while an elite bird trained for competition can sell for 70,000 Qatari riyals or more. Exceptional specimens have been known to reach prices exceeding 100,000 Qatari riyals.
As demand continues to rise, Qatar's falconry market has emerged as a key economic and cultural sector, providing jobs for breeders, veterinarians, artisans, and event organizers.
From the vast desert skies of its origin to the modern skyline of Doha, falconry has become an embodiment of Qatari pride, expertise, and enduring passion.
