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Qatar ’ s Falcons

Falconry has a storied history in the Arab world , particularly in Qatar , where the practice is recognised on UNESCO ’ s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List .

Once an essential skill perfected by Qatar ’ s bedouins to hunt for food , falconry has evolved into a popular sport – often passed down from one generation to the next . Despite its constant evolution , the essence of falconry remains unchanged .

As one explores the world of falconry , it becomes clear that the sport offers a delicate balance between past and present .

A THOUSAND-YEAR-OLD BOND

The bond between a falconer and his bird is built on trust , respect , and mutual dependence – a connection that has been cultivated over many centuries . This relationship becomes especially intimate due to the extensive time and effort required to train a falcon , resulting in a deep bond of mutual dedication .

PRECIOUS CARGO

What began as a nomadic practice rooted in survival now spans the globe , with falcons even having their own passports as they jet-set around the world . In the Middle East , it is not uncommon to see these regal birds travelling alongside passengers on planes .

Issue 13