From Desert Nomad to Modern Falconer: The Evolution of an Abu Dhabi Tradition
For Mohamed Al Remeithi, falconry began at thirteen, deep in the Empty Quarter alongside his grandfather. In those days, hunting was a raw, immersive experience defined by isolation; they trekked for days without modern technology, sleeping under the stars and relying entirely on their own resourcefulness. These early trips were more than just a huntâthey were masterclasses in patience and stewardship. Al Remeithi recalls a time when the desert was a vast, untouched wilderness where the only companions were the birds of prey and the silence of the sands, fostering a deep, inherent respect for nature that remains the bedrock of his practice today.
In the decades since, the landscape of falconry in Abu Dhabi has undergone a monumental shift toward modernization and conservation. Today, the sport is supported by state-run reserves, captive breeding programs for the houbara, and a comprehensive framework of environmental regulations. While hunting has become more accessibleâallowing families to enjoy the tradition without abandoning the comforts of home or interrupting professional livesâAl Remeithi insists that the core spirit remains unchanged. By balancing the legacy of his ancestors with modern sustainability efforts, he sees the evolution of the sport not as a departure from tradition, but as a necessary transformation to ensure that this ancient bond between human, bird, and desert survives for generations to come.