Abu Dhabi’s 2026-2027 Falconry Season Begins October 20
The upcoming 2026-2027 falconry season in Abu Dhabi is set to kick off on October 20, running through January 31. This traditional practice is exclusively open to UAE citizens aged 18 and older who hold a valid permit from the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). To participate, eligible falconers must secure their seasonal license for Dh127 through the TAMM platform using their UAE Pass. It is important to note that hunting is restricted solely to captive-bred houbara bustards, and all birds used must be officially registered within the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s national database.
To ensure the protection of wildlife and natural habitats, strict regulations remain in place throughout the season. Falconers are required to operate only between sunrise and sunset, maintaining a minimum distance of 2km from public roads, military zones, residential areas, and protected nature reserves. Furthermore, participants must carry their permits at all times, refrain from disturbing other local wildlife, and strictly avoid damaging vegetation or leaving waste behind. These measures are part of the emirate's broader commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while maintaining environmental sustainability under Hunting Law No. 22 of 2005.