During his tour, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak received a briefing on prominent exhibitors, the products and services they offer, and the opportunities the exhibition's sectors create for sharing knowledge and expertise. He also viewed examples of heritage arts and crafts, as well as practices linked to falconry, equestrianism, sustainable hunting and desert expeditions. These fields combine a deep-rooted place in Emirati heritage with contemporary approaches to presentation, education and public awareness.

He affirmed that the growth of the 23rd edition, the largest in the exhibition's history, reflects the global standing ADIHEX has built over the years and its role in safeguarding human heritage and preserving cultural traditions associated with hunting, equestrianism and falconry. These pursuits have been closely linked to the people of the UAE for centuries and embody knowledge and values associated with courage, patience, discipline and respect for the environment.

He said: ‘Under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the United Arab Emirates regards heritage as an integral part of our national identity and a source of the values that strengthen social cohesion and confidence in the future. His Highness has established a clear approach grounded in pride in our forefathers’ history, the transfer of their knowledge and experience to new generations, conscious engagement with the world, and the use of science and technology to protect this legacy and present it in contemporary ways.’

He added: ‘The vision of His Highness the President places people at the heart of development and embeds responsibility, tolerance, coexistence and respect for cultural diversity across Emirati society. From this perspective, caring for heritage extends beyond preserving objects and outward expressions. It also means safeguarding the values that helped build the UAE community and enabling young people to understand their roots and participate confidently in shaping the future.’

He continued: ‘The UAE has presented a model that brings authenticity and progress together, demonstrating that openness to the future reinforces rather than diminishes identity. The guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan continually encourages us to invest in knowledge and education and to create spaces where the people of the UAE can engage with diverse experiences and cultures in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation. This approach makes diversity a source of strength for society and makes dialogue a means of building trust and understanding among peoples.’

He noted that ADIHEX puts this approach into practice, saying: 'The exhibition is an important bridge for cultural exchange between peoples. It provides a unique space for connection, the sharing of expertise, and closer ties among different cultures, customs and traditions. In doing so, it reinforces the values of dialogue, understanding and tolerance central to the UAE's approach and affirms Abu Dhabi's established position as a leading global destination for hosting and organising major cultural and heritage events.'

He explained that bringing institutions, experts, craftspeople and practitioners together under one roof enables younger generations to discover heritage through living sources and gives experienced practitioners the opportunity to share their knowledge with a broad audience. He added that the presence of modern technologies and innovation across several exhibition sectors helps advance practices and supports efforts to balance the preservation of heritage with the use of contemporary tools.

He praised the exhibition's organisation and Abu Dhabi's ability to manage major events, noting that the emirate's confidence stems from a leadership vision that invests in infrastructure, national talent and international partnerships. He said the exhibition's success in attracting diverse local and international participation strengthens Abu Dhabi's presence on the global calendar of specialised events and supports its role as a centre for cultural and knowledge exchange.

He also commended the organisers and participating entities for presenting content that introduces the public to Emirati heritage and promotes responsible practices in hunting and environmental protection. He stressed the importance of continued cooperation among national institutions, the private sector, experts and practitioners to transfer knowledge, support craftspeople, and develop heritage-related industries and activities.

He was accompanied throughout the tour by Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC Group. He reviewed the prominent local and international participation and received a briefing on the exhibition's various sectors and the continued growth in the number of exhibitors and participating brands, which reinforces its position as a global platform celebrating heritage and culture.

The tour included pavilions showcasing products and initiatives related to falconry, equestrianism, sustainable hunting, desert expeditions, sporting arms, and heritage arts and crafts. He also learned about participating organisations' contributions to advancing these sectors, raising awareness of safe and responsible practices, and providing educational and cultural experiences tailored to different visitor groups.

The Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition is one of the world's largest and most prominent specialised exhibitions, bringing together thousands of exhibitors, experts and enthusiasts each year. Since its launch, ADIHEX has helped raise awareness of the importance of preserving cultural and environmental heritage and of embedding sustainability principles in traditional hunting practices. It has also supported cultural and creative industries and contributed to tourism and economic activity.

The exhibition's importance also lies in its ability to present heritage in a living, interactive setting. Visitors can discover inherited skills and expertise and learn about contemporary efforts to protect and develop them. ADIHEX also provides participants with a platform to build relationships, exchange knowledge and explore opportunities for cooperation, thereby supporting the sustainability of heritage-related sectors and broadening interest in them locally and internationally.

The 23rd edition of ADIHEX, the largest to date, is organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Falconers Club. It runs until 6 September at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.