ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a fresh support program aimed at Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed to assist existing breeding projects and those planning to set up new facilities. It provides specialist training, technical advice, and access to established breeding expertise. The initiative also establishes criteria related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of facilities.
A formal registration and evaluation process has been implemented for breeders wishing to participate. Applicants are required to undergo an assessment before the program grants final approval. Simply registering does not ensure acceptance, and candidates must satisfy the initiative’s conditions to receive support. This process allows experts to evaluate each applicant’s readiness and identify areas where additional training or technical help might be necessary.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the program and manage its scientific and technical components. The organization acts as a strategic partner for IFHC projects, centers, and programs within the UAE and internationally. Its responsibilities include facilitating the practical implementation of the initiative and coordinating services for participating breeders. The program was officially launched during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Specialized training enhances breeding quality and standards
Selected breeders and their teams will benefit from expert instruction provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The training includes courses and workshops focused on responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and facility management. The program also covers operational procedures used in managed breeding systems. Those who complete the required coursework will be awarded certificates, while ongoing technical support will continue through specialists involved in the project.
Participants who meet the criteria may also qualify to receive breeding birds through a right-to-use agreement after fulfilling assessments and training. This support complements the program’s educational and technical assistance elements. IFHC developed the initiative to give breeders access to knowledge gained from its extensive conservation efforts. The program integrates breeder assessment, structured instruction, and continuous support into a unified participation model.
ADIHEX serves as the platform for launching the initiative
With over forty years of experience, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been involved in breeding, research, release, and conservation activities for the species. Its work has included projects within the UAE and collaboration with other countries within the houbara’s native range. The new breeder-focused program channels this extensive expertise into a structured scheme for private sector participants. It emphasizes clear welfare, biosecurity, and training requirements at the core of participation.
Breeders interested in joining can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the IFHC and Ekthar presence at ADIHEX 2026. The event is hosted at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6. Registration must be followed by an assessment process before final acceptance into the program. Successful applicants will then gain access to training, technical guidance, and eligible breeding birds under the established terms of participation.