Al Marzoom Hunting Reserve receives first group of falconers in its second season

Marzoom Hunting Reserve in Al Gharbia, the Western Region, opened its doors recently to receive the first group of visitors and falconers in its second season, running from mid-November 2016 to mid-February 2017.

Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Director of Heritage Competitions at the Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi, the official body that supervises the Protected Area, said that over 2,500 falconers and visitors are expected to stop at the reserve this season. He also revealed that around 500 hunting trips will be organised by the Al Marzoom Hunting Reserve.

"In the light of the great success achieved throughout the previous season, we go on, today, with the organisation of this unique initiative, so as to implement the instructions of the wise leadership towards the support of traditional heritage sports in the UAE. The organisation of the second hunting season at Al Marzoom is also inspired by the great interest that was accorded by the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, for falconry as a significant cultural legacy, an important moral value, and an integral part of the national identity and the Emirati heritage," Al Mazrouei said.

Ahmed bin Hiaa Al Mansouri, Director of Al Marzoom Hunting Reserve, said, "Our department is pleased, again, to receive and welcome its visitors and guests from the lovers of falconry and traditional hunting. We hope for our visitors to enjoy a unique heritage experience which this season will be characterised by the organisation of diverse traditional activities and exciting surprises. We will present an opportunity to practice falconry and learn its skills without having to travel abroad and will be providing a suitable environment and a safe area for falconers and those interested in other related activities."