ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – International Fund for Houbara Conservation has unveiled a novel support scheme for Emirati houbara breeders at ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed to assist existing breeding projects and those planning to develop new facilities. It provides expert training, technical support, and access to established breeding expertise. The program also establishes guidelines relating to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of breeding sites.
The initiative introduces a structured registration and evaluation process for prospective breeders. Applicants are required to undergo an assessment before receiving final approval. Registration does not automatically guarantee participation, as breeders must satisfy specific criteria to access support. This process enables specialists to evaluate each applicant’s readiness and identify areas needing additional training or technical assistance.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will implement the program and supervise its scientific and technical aspects. As a strategic partner, the company supports IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives both within the UAE and internationally. Its responsibilities include facilitating the practical execution of the initiative and coordinating services for participating breeders. The launch event took place during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Dedicated training enhances breeding standards
Participants accepted into the program and their teams will undergo specialized training through Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum includes responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and management of breeding facilities. Operational practices used in managed breeding programs will also be covered. Upon completing the courses, participants can earn certificates, while ongoing technical support will be provided by specialists during their engagement in the initiative.
Breeders meeting the criteria may also be granted access to breeding birds through a right-to-use agreement after completing the necessary assessments and training. This support complements the program’s educational and technical assistance components. IFHC designed the initiative to provide breeders with insights gained from its extensive houbara conservation efforts. The program merges breeder evaluation, formal instruction, and continuous support into a comprehensive participation framework.
ADIHEX serves as the launch event for the program
For over forty years, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been engaged in houbara breeding, research, releases, and conservation projects. Its work spans projects within the UAE and collaborative efforts across the species’ native range. The new breeder-focused initiative captures that wealth of expertise within a structured program tailored for private sector participants. It emphasizes strict welfare, biosecurity, and training standards as core participation requirements.
Breeders can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the presence of IFHC and Ekthar at ADIHEX 2026. The event runs at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6. Prospective applicants must progress from registration to assessment before final acceptance. Qualified breeders will then gain access to training, technical support, and eligible breeding birds under the program’s established participation terms.