Falcon frenzy descends on Riyadh
Falconry is an important part of Saudi sporting heritage — along with camel racing and horse racing — but its economic importance is increasing too.
Riyadh is hosting a falcon frenzy as hundreds of prized hunting birds change hands for millions of riyals over the coming weeks. Falconry holds cultural significance in Saudi Arabia, alongside camel and horse racing, but its economic impact is growing. Sales at the International Falcon Breeders Auction have surged by over 60% since 2023, totaling 13 million riyals ($3.5 million) last year, when 1,100 birds were traded.
On the inaugural night of this year's auction, a gyrfalcon, the largest falcon species, fetched 380,000 riyals. By the fourth day, sales surpassed 1 million riyals, with two weeks remaining. Buyers are primarily Saudi, but sellers and their birds often travel from Europe, North America, and beyond. The influx of cash is expected to continue, as falcons purchased at the auction can compete in races with prize pools totaling 50 million riyals.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
