ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has launched a support initiative for Emirati houbara breeders at ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative targets people operating existing houbara production projects and those considering new facilities. It gives participants access to specialist knowledge, practical training and technical guidance. The program focuses on responsible breeding methods, animal welfare, biosecurity and sound management practices across houbara breeding operations.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will operate the initiative and manage its scientific and technical components. Ekthar also serves as the strategic operating partner for IFHC centers, programs and projects in the UAE and internationally. The initiative draws on that conservation and operational experience to support participating breeders. IFHC launched the program during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, which brings together falconers, breeders and organizations involved in wildlife, heritage and conservation.
Breeders who register for the initiative will enter a structured assessment process before they can join the program. The assessment will examine their readiness and identify areas where they may require additional support. Registration alone does not guarantee acceptance into the initiative. IFHC requires applicants to complete the assessment process before final admission, creating a defined entry procedure for established breeders and people preparing to develop new houbara breeding operations.
Training pathway sets entry requirements
Successful applicants and their teams will receive specialist education through Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. Workshops, courses and other training will cover the main areas of responsible houbara breeding and facility management. The curriculum will also address animal welfare, biosecurity and the operational practices required for managed breeding. Participants who complete the relevant training programs will receive certificates, while technical specialists will continue providing guidance as breeders develop or improve their operations.
Eligible participants may also receive breeding birds on a right to use basis after completing required assessments and training. The arrangement forms another component of the support program alongside education and continuing technical guidance. IFHC said the initiative places its accumulated breeding and conservation experience at the disposal of participating breeders. Mohamed Almotawa AlDhaheri, acting director general of IFHC, said the program connects houbara breeding with knowledge, responsibility and established operating practices.
Conservation expertise supports breeder development
The new initiative expands IFHC engagement with people involved in houbara breeding and the cultural practices linked to the species. The organization has worked on houbara conservation for more than four decades through research, breeding, releases and international cooperation. In 2025, IFHC reported annual production of 107,808 houbara birds. It also reported cumulative production of 996,064 birds since the conservation program began, with 598,314 released across 18 countries within the species’ native range.
Interested breeders can register through the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the IFHC and Ekthar presence at ADIHEX 2026. The exhibition provided the launch venue for the program and direct access to specialists involved in its delivery. After registration, applicants must proceed through assessment and final acceptance before receiving program support. Those who qualify can then access training, technical guidance and, where eligible, breeding birds under the initiative’s right to use arrangement.