ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme aimed at Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. This Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed to assist individuals managing current houbara breeding projects as well as those planning to establish new facilities, offering them access to expert knowledge, hands-on training, and technical support. The focus of the program lies on promoting responsible breeding techniques, prioritizing animal welfare, ensuring biosecurity, and implementing effective management practices across various breeding operations.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the execution of this initiative and handle its scientific and technical aspects. Ekthar also functions as the strategic operational partner for IFHC centers, programs, and projects both within the UAE and internationally. Drawing from its extensive experience in conservation and operational management, Ekthar will support participating breeders. The program was launched during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, an event that gathers falconers, breeders, and organizations dedicated to wildlife, heritage, and conservation efforts.
Prospective breeders interested in joining the initiative must undergo a comprehensive assessment process before acceptance. This assessment aims to evaluate their current readiness and identify areas where additional support may be needed. Merely registering does not guarantee acceptance; applicants are required to complete this evaluation to be officially admitted, establishing a structured entry procedure for experienced breeders and individuals planning to initiate new houbara breeding projects.
Training requirements define entry standards
Those who successfully pass the assessment and their teams will benefit from specialized education provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The training will include workshops, courses, and other educational activities covering key topics such as responsible houbara breeding, facility management, animal welfare, biosecurity, and operational practices essential for managed breeding. Upon completing the relevant training modules, participants will receive certificates, and technical experts will continue to offer guidance to support breeders as they develop or enhance their operations.
Participants who meet the criteria may also be granted the right to use breeding birds after fulfilling the necessary assessments and training requirements. This arrangement forms an integral part of the support scheme alongside education and ongoing technical assistance. The IFHC emphasizes that the initiative leverages its extensive breeding and conservation expertise to benefit participating breeders. Mohamed Almotawa AlDhaheri, acting director general of IFHC, stated that the program aims to link houbara breeding with knowledge, responsibility, and proven operational standards.
Expertise in conservation enhances breeder development
This new initiative broadens IFHC’s engagement with individuals involved in houbara breeding and the related cultural practices tied to the species. The organization has dedicated over forty years to houbara conservation through research, captive breeding, releases, and international collaborations. In 2025, IFHC reported an annual production of 107,808 houbara birds and a cumulative total of 996,064 birds since the start of the conservation program, with 598,314 birds released across 18 countries within the species’ native range.
Breeders interested in participating can sign up via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or by visiting the IFHC and Ekthar booths at ADIHEX 2026. The event served as the official launch platform for the program and provided direct access to specialists involved in its implementation. After registering, applicants must go through the assessment process and gain final approval before receiving any program benefits. Those who qualify will then be able to access training, technical support, and, where applicable, breeding birds under the initiative’s right to use scheme.