Here’s what to expect at the first-ever AlUla Falcon Cup
It will take place at the Mughaira Heritage Sports Village from December 28, 2023 to January 5, 2024…
Calling all talented falconers and falcon lovers. The first-ever Falcon Cup to be held in AlUla is set to take place from Thursday December 28 to Friday January 5 at the Mughaira Heritage Sports Village.
Recorded by historians as one of the oldest human activities, falconry and falcon racing hold a deep cultural significance in the Arabian Peninsula, and this event marks the first in a series to reintroduce these historical traditions to the region.
Expect to see some of the finest displays of falconry set among AlUla’s spectacular scenery. Over 2,000 top falconers will compete to demonstrate their birds’ prowess, speed and beauty over this thrilling nine-day extravaganza with the hope of winning a share of SAR60 million (USD16 million) – a record in the world of falconry.
The AlUla Falcon Cup will include a racing competition and Falcon Mazayen best-of-breed show.
The Falcon Race Competition will preview falcons’ racing techniques, showcasing the strong relationship between the falcons and their falconers. It will demonstrate how falconers command their falcons and how they communicate.
Meanwhile, the Falcon Mazayen will be a competition to select the most beautiful falcons across various breeds. Visitors can anticipate a fierce contest that embodies excellence, dedication, and skill.
How to watch
The Falcon Race Competition will take place daily from Thursday December 28 to Friday January 5 between 8am and 5pm, while the Falcon Mazayen will be held from Tuesday January 2 to Thursday January 4 from 8pm to 10pm.
General admission to the AlUla Falcon Cup is free, and this includes access to the two competitions. But for SAR150, the premium admission will allow you entry into the plush lounge with complimentary refreshments, as well as the two competitions.
Tickets for the AlUla Falcon Cup can be purchased here.
Rami AlMoallim, vice president of Destination Management and Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This event promises thrills to AlUla’s locals and visitors alike, paying homage to our traditions and our commitment to protecting and showcasing this culture globally. We are working to introduce this unique relationship between humans and animals in the most creative way, showcasing our culture against the captivating backdrop of AlUla’s scenic landscape.”
Walid AlTaweel, the official spokesperson of Saudi Falcons Club, said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with The Royal Commission for AlUla to introduce the inaugural AlUla Falcon Cup and showcase this historical culture to the world. We look forward to bringing the most thrilling falcon competition to the ancient city of AlUla.”
AlUla Falcon Cup, Dec 28 to Jan 5, Mughaira Heritage Sports Village, AlUla. Tickets can be purchased here. @alulamoments
Images: Provided