RIYADH: Japan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Yasunari Morino, on Saturday visited the International Falcon Breeders Auction in Malham, north of Riyadh — the largest event of its kind in the world.
Organized by the Saudi Falcons Club, the auction runs until Aug. 25 and features leading falcon breeding farms from across the globe.
Morino, welcomed by Talal Al-Shamaisi, CEO of the club, toured the auction pavilions, inspected rare falcon species and their feed, explored farm equipment sections, and visited the Falconer of the Future pavilion, where he photographed some of the birds.
According to club spokesperson Walid Al-Taweel, the auction stands out for its “high-quality breeds in a competitive and professional environment,” attracting elite falconers, breeders, and collectors worldwide.
The event has set sales records over the past four years. In 2024, 872 birds were sold for over SR10 million ($2.7 million) — a 25% revenue increase and 36% rise in sales volume from 2023. On the opening night this year, two falcons fetched SR180,000.
Al-Taweel noted that modern technology — including live-streamed bidding and comprehensive medical checks — boosts buyer confidence and global participation.
The auction not only connects the falconry community but also supports cultural preservation. The Falconer of the Future pavilion introduces children to falconry through hands-on training tools, simulated hunting rounds, and educational displays. Winners of youth competitions receive cash prizes and honors, helping to pass on the heritage of falconry to the next generation.
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