Sharjah Falconers Club launches ‘Best Magyed’ - 2025

June 18, 2025 / 7:24 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Falconers Club has announced the 2025 edition of the “Best Magyed” competition—Magyed is a protective shelter where falcons are kept during their moulting season, typically lasting 5 to 7 months. The competition aims to spotlight outstanding falcon care, preserve this cultural tradition, and encourage environmentally responsible practices in the preparation and management of falcon moulting shelters.

Evaluation criteria and field visits

The competition recognises falconers who prepare and manage their Magyeds with professionalism and care. The evaluation committee will begin site visits on 15 August 2025 to eligible Magyeds across the Emirate of Sharjah. Each Magyed must house at least four falcons. Visits will be conducted in the evening, and the committee will document and share images through the club’s official channels. All decisions are final.

Judging will be based on strict technical and environmental criteria: the Magyed’s location relative to external influences, cleanliness and general upkeep, falcon-to-space ratio, number and placement of perches, number of caretakers, and the integrity of walls and facilities. The presence of cooling systems and backup power measures will also be considered, as well as the positioning of sunlight to ensure its benefit without harming the falcons.

Sustainability as a key focus

The competition favours sustainable practices. Evaluation will include the use of alternative energy (meeting minimum thresholds), conservation of water and electricity, safe waste management, and adherence to health and safety standards. Dedicated food preparation areas and the Magyed's adaptability for year-round use will earn additional points.

Prizes and cultural preservation

Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three Magyeds: AED 20,000 for first place, AED 15,000 for second, and AED 10,000 for third. These rewards aim to inspire participants to deliver exceptional standards in falcon care.

Mohammed Khalifa Al Badwawi, Chairman of the Sharjah Falconers Club, expressed pride in continuing this unique competition. He stressed its role in preserving falconry heritage and supporting knowledge exchange, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Al Badwawi encouraged qualified falconers in Sharjah to take part, emphasising that the competition is a platform for excellence, tradition, and sustainable development within the falconry community.