S’hail 2026 auction draws big crowds to Katara

The 10th Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition, S'hail 2026, concluded over the weekend, drawing large crowds to a diverse array of events, displays and specialist exhibits. The robust turnout highlighted the exhibition's wide appeal, blending the authenticity of Qatari heritage with contemporary advancements in hunting, falconry and outdoor pursuits.

Visitors navigated bustling halls displaying equipment, services, and expertise from various sectors, while gaining insights into traditional practices that added a rich cultural aspect.

Among the exhibition's highlights was the S'hail 2026 auction, which garnered significant interest from falconers, hunters, breeders, and enthusiasts. The daily bidding sessions offered visitors a close-up look at prized birds, creating a vibrant focal point within the larger exhibition and reinforcing S'hail's standing as a gathering place for both regional and international falconry communities.

Khalifa bin Sultan al-Humaidi, a member of the S'hail 2026 Supreme Organising Committee, noted that the auction is unique for featuring exceptionally rare falcons, excluding hybrids—a distinction that has earned it a special place among falconers and enthusiasts in Qatar and the broader Gulf region. This year's auction showcases 43 falcons, each rigorously evaluated by a specialized committee for its appearance and distinctive qualities.

Only the finest specimens are selected for daily bidding, a process that ensures the auction maintains its high standards and meets the expectations of seasoned buyers.

Final prices are determined by demand and the intensity of competition, particularly when an exceptional falcon draws multiple bids. Al-Humaidi emphasized that the auction has evolved into a premier destination for rare and beautiful falcons, attracting breeders and falconers eager to view an elite collection gathered in one location.

Meanwhile, the broader exhibition continues to solidify its position as an international hub for heritage, culture, specialist expertise, and the latest technologies and services that support hunting and falconry. The exhibition's fusion of tradition, commerce, and innovation remains its enduring allure.