ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme aimed at Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed for those managing existing houbara breeding projects as well as individuals planning to establish new facilities. Participants gain access to expert insights, hands-on training, and technical support. The program emphasizes responsible breeding practices, animal welfare, biosecurity measures, and effective management across breeding operations.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the initiative and coordinate its scientific and technical components. Ekthar also functions as the strategic operational partner for IFHC centers, programs, and projects both within the UAE and internationally. The initiative leverages Ekthar’s extensive conservation and operational experience to support participating breeders. The program was launched at the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, an event gathering falconers, breeders, and organizations dedicated to wildlife, heritage, and conservation efforts.
Prospective breeders interested in joining the program must undergo a structured assessment process beforehand. This evaluation aims to determine their readiness and identify areas where additional support might be needed. Simply registering does not ensure acceptance; applicants must complete the assessment to be officially admitted. This process establishes a clear entry point for both seasoned breeders and those looking to develop new houbara breeding operations.
Training requirements define eligibility
Those approved and their teams will benefit from specialized training through Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The educational program includes workshops, courses, and other training formats covering responsible houbara breeding and management. Topics also include animal welfare, biosecurity, and operational procedures essential for managed breeding. Certification will be awarded upon completion of relevant training modules, and technical experts will continue providing support as breeders expand or enhance their facilities.
Participants who meet the requirements may also be granted breeding birds under a right to use agreement after passing the necessary assessments and training. This arrangement constitutes an additional aspect of the support initiative alongside education and ongoing technical advice. IFHC emphasized that the program aims to utilize its expertise in breeding and conservation to benefit participating breeders. Mohamed Almotawa AlDhaheri, acting director general of IFHC, highlighted that the initiative links houbara breeding with knowledge, responsibility, and proven operational standards.
Expertise in conservation enhances breeder development
This new program broadens IFHC’s engagement with individuals involved in houbara breeding and related cultural traditions. The organization’s work in houbara conservation spans over forty years, involving research, captive breeding, releases, and international collaborations. In 2025, IFHC reported an annual production of 107,808 houbara birds. Since its inception, the conservation efforts have resulted in a total of 996,064 birds produced, with 598,314 released across 18 countries within the species’ native habitat range.
Breeders interested in participating can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the presence of IFHC and Ekthar at ADIHEX 2026. The event served as the official launch venue, providing direct access to specialists involved in delivering the program. Following registration, applicants must undergo assessment and be accepted before receiving support. Qualified breeders will then have access to training, technical guidance, and, where eligible, breeding birds through the right to use scheme offered by the initiative.