Saudi Falcons exhibition set for October in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Falcons has outlined the 2026 International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, set for Oct. 1-10 in Riyadh with a larger footprint, new programming and a push to draw more local and international visitors and exhibitors. The event is meant to expand the Kingdom’s falconry heritage into a broader platform for business, entertainment and tourism.

Why it matters: - The 2026 exhibition is one of the world’s largest specialized falconry and hunting events. - The event combines heritage, tourism, entertainment and business in one venue. - The expanded format signals growing demand from visitors, exhibitors and brands. - The exhibition is intended to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s profile in falconry and related outdoor experiences.

What happened: - Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Falcons announced the main features of the International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026. - The exhibition will run from Oct. 1 to 10 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, north of Riyadh. - The event will take place under the theme “A Living Heritage… An Experience for All.” - Organizers said the exhibition is designed as an integrated Saudi destination for heritage, adventure, entertainment and business. - The platform is meant to start in Riyadh and reach an international audience.

The details: - The 2026 edition will cover 197,000 square meters. - Organizers said the exhibition will include a broad range of activities, programs and experiences for different audiences. - The 2025 edition generated sales of more than SAR 91 million, or USD 24.25 million. - More than 1,400 exhibitors and brands took part in 2025. - The 2026 exhibition area has grown by about 30,000 square meters from the previous edition. - The event will include falconry, hunting, outdoor travel, adventure, heritage, culture and entertainment. - Planned features include Future Falconer, Shalayel Museum, sea fishing, hiking, safari and traditional hunting experiences. - Other activities include shooting, off-roading, falcon calling, falcon racing, camel racing, camel auctions, workshops and folkloric performances. - The exhibition is aimed at falconers, specialists, hunting and outdoor enthusiasts, families, children and young people. - The program is designed to combine knowledge, entertainment, heritage and adventure. - Walid Al-Taweel, official spokesperson for the National Center for Falcons, said government support has helped preserve Saudi Arabia’s falconry heritage, raise its profile and develop related events. - Al-Taweel said the exhibition has grown since its launch in 2018 in visitor and participant numbers, total area, and the diversity of its content and experiences. - Al-Taweel said the 2026 edition is intended to bring together falconers, exhibitors, companies, families, young people, and hunting and outdoor enthusiasts. - The center said the exhibition will also feature Qirnas, a live talk-show program running throughout the event. - Qirnas will host experts and guests to discuss falconry, hunting, heritage and related topics.

Between the lines: - The larger footprint and broader programming suggest the exhibition is shifting from a niche showcase to a wider commercial and cultural event. - The addition of live talks and more family-oriented activities points to a strategy of extending the event beyond specialist audiences. - The focus on partnerships, exhibitors and operational efficiency indicates organizers want to scale the event’s business impact as well as its cultural reach.

What's next: - The center will work to improve visitor experience, content, services and operational efficiency for 2026. - Organizers will seek to expand partnerships and attract more exhibitors, brands and local and international participants. - The exhibition is expected to add to its social, economic and media impact as it grows. - The National Center for Falcons will continue using the exhibition as a global platform for falconry, hunting, heritage, outdoor travel, adventure, entertainment and business.

The bottom line: - Riyadh’s flagship falconry exhibition is getting bigger, broader and more international in 2026.