500 falconers from 80 countries swoop on Abu Dhabi

More than 500 falconers from 80 countries will descend on Abu Dhabi next month to take part in what is considered the biggest gathering in the history of the sport.
The International Festivals of Falconry, which will take place alongside the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival in Abu Dhabi begins at the Falconers' Camp in Hamim, Al Gharbia, on December 7 where falconers will spend three days practising hunting prey with their birds.
After the first three days in Al Gharbia the festival will move to Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Khalifa City, where it will be open to the public.
Visitors will be able to view the birds of prey paraded by falconers dressed in their national dress and raising their country's flag.