The third edition of the festival opened its doors for the visitors on Friday at the headquarters of the Saudi Falcons Club in Mulham.

One of the major falconry festivals in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi International Falcons and Hunting Exhibition has finally unwrapped and is taking place north of the capital, Riyadh.

The third edition of the festival opened its doors for the visitors on Friday at the headquarters of the Saudi Falcons Club in Mulham.

Organised by the Saudi Falcons Club, the 10-day event which will run till October 10 is hosting pavilions devoted to hunting weapons, various species of falcons, the arts and family activities, along with shooting ranges, a Saudi village, and a digital museum.

Saudi Arabia has always been the leader of falconry and is considered one of the most supreme activities in Saudi Arabia. Falconry or hunting with falcons has been an integral part of the region for over 10,000 years and is practised with passion and joy. Over the past few decades, the region has emerged as the pioneer in breeding and preservation as the wider falconry industry.

The third edition of the exhibition will host local and international companies that specialise in the manufacturing of hunting weapons. These weapons will be offered for sale for visitors, provided that the buyer obtains a license for weapons from the Ministry of Interior. The visitors can also buy weapons and ammunition and apply for a license to carry or acquire a weapon license.

The event will also include an arts sector where 29 artists and talented craftsmen from 10 countries will participate to display their paintings and creative models.

The event aims to preserve the Saudi culture and heritage of raising different types of falcons, as well as the hobby of hunting, and pass it on to future generations.