Experience: Passport-Equipped Falcons Take Flight in UAE Seats - Unveiling the Life of a Falconer
Let's dive into the life of a dedicated Emirati falconer, Ammar Al Marri—a man who's turned his Instagram following of 72,000 into a window into the ancient and deeply-rooted practice of falconry.
In just half a year, Ammar has opened fans' eyes to the costs and commitments that few could imagine. Behind the allure of this traditional Emirati culture lies a world of genuine passion, investments, and a unique lifestyle.
"The lack of extensive coverage of falconry was my motivation," Al Marri shares. "There are events, championships, and the UAE hasn't shied away, but we needed a comprehensive account, one that enriches enthusiasts and others, covering every aspect."
Each bird in his care costs around AED 1,000 monthly—just for basics like food and tracking devices. Initial investments can go much higher, with equipment such as GPS trackers and simulated prey planes setting him back about AED 7,000.
Enjoying the journey beyond the financial aspects, Ammar takes pride in his birds, spending his winters chasing the horizon with them and making memories that last a lifetime.
The falconer's daily grind
The bond between falconer and bird doesn't form overnight. The bonding process takes time and patience, especially after the summer season ends.
"I dedicate most of my initial days to them," Al Marri tells us. "Each bird needs at least two to three hours a day to get used to me again."
Their days start with cardio conditioning using specialized aircraft designed to mimic prey, helping falcons engross themselves in their natural hunt instinct, building the stamina required for hunting sessions. Afternoons are usually spent on hunting practice, including "talwah" —a traditional hunting method used to maintain their predatory skills on migratory birds or pigeons.
Each bird receives attention according to their specific needs: a bird that needs more exercise will have its flying sessions extended, while a lethargic bird might have less food during hunting time to spark its interest.
Flights with feathered friends
Falcons' hunting expeditions rarely resemble the average traveler's. International trips and document acquisition are just as crucial parts of falconry as the actual hunting.
"The passport requirement depends on the bird owner and the falconer," Al Marri explains. "If they're traveling together, the bird must have a passport."
Preparation is key, especially when it comes to their in-flight comfort. "It's best if the bird is full before boarding the plane—to avoid discomfort and maintain calm."
The trip usually becomes a cultural exchange, attracting curiosity and admiration from fellow travelers. "In the Gulf, people aren't surprised, but those from other countries look in awe and amazement," Al Marri says.
A shared tradition
Falconry offers more than just a hobby. It's a connection forged over shared commitment and generations of tradition. This social aspect strengthens family bonds and influences daily cares and training decisions.
Emphasizing the cultural value, Al Marri encourages young Emiratis to get involved in the practice, especially boys between the ages of 15 and 19. He believes falconry shapes personalities, fostering responsibility, problem-solving skills, and confidence.
To demonstrate his dedication to youth engagement, Al Marri organizes contests —the latest being a social media competition that offered a young falcon to the lucky winner.
The emotional connection
The bond between falcon and falconer grows stronger with each passing day, tying them together in a unique relationship. Regrettably, falcons can sometimes succumb to injuries during hunting or health complications.
"I'll never forget a bird that I loved deeply," Al Marri recalls. "He was swift and feared nothing. One day, during a hunt, he struck a stone curlew, breaking his wing, and in just a few hours, he passed away."
Future of falconry
While falconry is traditionally an expensive affair rather than a source of profit, Al Marri envisions ways to develop sustainable business models that can support the practice and make it accessible to more people. "The challenge lies in making the most of this expensive hobby while sharing its benefits with those who wish to participate," he says.
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Written by:Ruqayya Al [email protected]
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References:
- Personal interview with Ammar Al Marri on June 10, 2021
- Al Marri, A. (2021, January 1). Personal interview.
- Al Marri, A. (2021, June 10). Personal correspondence.
- EmiratesFalconry. (2021, April 20). Buying a falcon. [YouTube video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3QSxLNCh7ZU
- Emirates Falconers' Club. (n.d.). Emirates Falconers' Club. [Website]. https://emiratesfalconersclub.com/
- AlReyami, K. (2019, March 12). The success story of the youngest falconer in the UAE. Gulf Today. https://gulftoday.ae/news/social/2019/3/12/the-success-story-of-the-youngest-falconer-in-the-uae
- Al Dhaheri, D. (2019, January 11). How to get an e-passport for your falcon in the UAE. Gulf News. https://gulfnews.com/life-style/how-to/how-to-get-an-e-passport-for-your-falcon-in-the-uae-1.62516191
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- Ammar Al Marri has turned his Instagram following into a comprehensive account showcasing every aspect of falconry, enriching enthusiasts and others alike.
- In addition to the financial aspects, Ammar takes pride in the bond he forms with each bird, dedicating time and patience to their bonding process.
- Each bird in Ammar's care requires about AED 1,000 a month for food and tracking devices, and initial investments can go even higher with equipment like GPS trackers and simulated prey planes costing around AED 7,000.
- Falconry isn't just a hobby for Ammar—it's a connection forged over shared commitment and generations of tradition, strengthening family bonds and influencing training decisions.
- Traveling with falcons can be as crucial as the actual hunting, with international trips, document acquisition, and in-flight comfort being part of the process.
- Al Marri envisions sustainable business models for falconry to make it accessible to more people while maintaining its traditional values and costs.
