You don't need to know falconry to be blown away by this festival
The world’s largest falconry event is back. Here’s all you need to know about this year’s King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival
Even if falconry is new to you, the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss. Organised by the Saudi Falcons Club, this year’s edition will take place at its headquarters in Melham, north of Riyadh, from Thursday December 25 to Saturday January 10, 2026.
The annual festival has attracted thousands of falcons and hundreds of falconers from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf nations, and beyond, making it the world’s largest falconry gathering.
Competitors vie for top honours, including the coveted King Abdulaziz Cups and the King’s Sword – symbols of superior falconry – while thousands of falcons take centre stage, a spectacle that has broken Guinness World Records three times.
The festival underscores the Kingdom’s efforts to preserve cultural heritage, empower falconers, nurture emerging talent and strengthen Riyadh’s position on the global heritage events map.
What to expect this year
For 2025, the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival promises an even more exciting and immersive experience. Alongside the traditional Milwah Race and the Mazayen Beauty Contest, new competitions include the Nova Race, Mongolian Falcons Race, Shalfa King races, a school’s race, and a women’s race, reflecting the festival’s increasing inclusivity and international appeal.
Beyond the competitions, visitors can immerse themselves in heritage-focused activities, such as traditional falconry demonstrations, hands-on falcon-handling workshops, and a falconry museum showcasing the sport’s history.
Visitors can also explore art exhibitions, heritage market stalls, desert camps, cultural performances, and family-friendly attractions.
Expect lightning-fast falcon action, stunning displays of heritage, and a vibrant desert atmosphere that’s as thrilling for first-timers as it is for returning fans.
A highlight of recent festivals has been interactive exhibitions that blend tradition with modern technology, such as digital museums where international visitors can engage with falcon biology, conservation, care practices, and history (often presented bilingually in Arabic and English for accessibility).
Here’s how you can experience the festival
Want all the details on visiting the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival? Keep an eye out on the Saudi Falcons Club app – official schedules, ticket info, and insider tips will be released closer to the festival dates.
Whether you are a curious visitor eager to witness one of the world’s most unique festivals or a falconry aficionado, this is a golden opportunity to witness majestic falcons, engage with desert culture, and feel the pulse of a tradition that has soared across centuries.
Location: Saudi Falcons Headquarters, Malham, 792P+JQ, Malham 13380, Riyadh
Images: Social / SPA
