Hamdan bin Mohammed: Countries that value their heritage and identity can build their future with confidence

Abu Dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, visited the 23rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX 2026) at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. During the visit, Sheikh Hamdan underscored the importance of preserving the UAE's heritage and passing it on to future generations, describing it as a cornerstone of national identity. "The UAE's heritage is a cornerstone of our national identity, and preserving it is a responsibility passed down through generations," Sheikh Hamdan said. "We take immense pride in the rich legacy and deeply rooted values that have shaped our nation's journey. We remain committed to safeguarding our heritage while harnessing innovation and technology to ensure its sustainability and strengthen the UAE's position as a global model that honours its past while embracing the future." He added that the UAE has made its heritage an enduring source of inspiration for its development journey and future generations, noting that ADIHEX reflects this approach by bringing together cultural heritage, advanced industries and innovation while providing a global platform for knowledge exchange and the continued development of the hunting and equestrian sectors. Accompanied by Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of ADNEC Group, and a number of senior officials, Sheikh Hamdan toured several national and international pavilions at the exhibition, which is being held under the theme "A Legacy of Pride" and runs until 6 September. During the tour, he reviewed products, technologies and specialised solutions related to hunting, equestrianism, falconry and outdoor activities, as well as initiatives focused on heritage preservation and the use of advanced technologies to support related industries. Sheikh Hamdan also visited the pavilions of the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, ekthar, Bin Hayai Center for Houbara and Wild Rabbit Breeding, Al Marzoom Hunting Reserve, CARACAL, INPEX, UAE Biotech Research Center, Gulf Falcons and Sawari. He was briefed on initiatives, innovations and technologies in wildlife conservation, falconry and sustainable hunting. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted ADIHEX's growing stature as a global platform that brings together experts, enthusiasts, companies and leading brands from around the world while showcasing the UAE's heritage and promoting knowledge exchange across hunting, equestrianism and falconry. He also praised the organisers for the continued development of the exhibition, reflected in the scale of participation and the diversity of sectors and activities featured in this year's edition. According to organisers, the 23rd edition is the largest in ADIHEX's history, occupying all halls and facilities at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi for the first time. Running for 10 days, the exhibition reflects continued growth in participation, scale and activities. Organised by ADNEC Group in strategic partnership with the Emirates Falconers' Club, ADIHEX features 15 specialised sectors covering hunting, equestrianism, falconry, heritage preservation, camping and outdoor activities, with participation from companies, organisations and specialised brands from the UAE and abroad. The exhibition also offers a range of cultural and heritage activities, interactive experiences and showcases of the latest products, technologies and innovative solutions.