UAE Falcon Release Programme Reintroduces 2,400 Falcons to the Wild

Aug 20, 2026

78 min

Aug 20, 2026 10:31

UAE’s Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme returns 2,400 falcons to the wild

## Falcon Release Initiative

The UAE's Sheikh Zayed Falcon Release Programme has successfully reintroduced over 2,400 falcons into the wild since its inception in 1995. This initiative, inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, aims to protect falcon species while preserving the cultural heritage of falconry in the UAE.

## Conservation Efforts

The programme focuses on releasing Saker and Peregrine falcons into their natural habitats across Central Asia and along migration paths towards Siberia. It combines traditional falconry with modern conservation practices, promoting sustainable hunting and reducing pressure on wild falcon populations.

## Supporting Falcon Populations

Efforts include captive-breeding programmes and encouraging the use of captive-bred falcons among falconers. The Mohamed bin Zayed Raptor Conservation Fund supports these initiatives, including an artificial-nest project in Mongolia that produces thousands of falcons annually.

## Recent Activities in Kazakhstan

This year, the programme released 49 falcons in Kazakhstan, marking the 18th consecutive year of operations in the region. Twenty of these birds were equipped with satellite tracking devices to gather data on their migration and survival.

## Educational Initiatives

To ensure the continuation of falconry traditions, the UAE has established the Mohamed bin Zayed School for Falconry and Desert Skills. This institution educates younger generations on falconry while emphasizing environmental respect.

## Broader Conservation Impact

The International Fund for Houbara Conservation also plays a role, producing nearly 100,000 Houbara birds annually to support sustainable hunting and release programmes. These combined efforts aim to maintain falconry as a vital part of Emirati heritage while safeguarding wildlife and habitats.

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