By Monalisha Mallick
● Last Updated : 18 Sep 2023
City & Culture
Middle East
Falcons are a significant part of the traditional culture of the UAE. With exact history not known as to when the Bedouins first started using them, Falcons have played a crucial role in the history of the United Arab Emirates. They have helped Bedouins hunt animals in the extreme hot desert environment. The one thing that set the Falcons apart from other predatory animals, is that they can be trained to deliver the hunt alive. This helped the Bedouins to ensure that the meat is halal.
Bedouins (or Bedawi in Arabic) are the oldest inhabitants of the deserts of Arabia. They are a nomadic group of desert-dwellers or local tribes who were always on the move. Bedouins used to travel thousands of kilometers in the deserts using just the sun and stars for navigation.
They were expert trackers, and it is believed that they could distinguish the footsteps of humans and animals in the sand, and also could say if the human being was a man or when and also could tell the approximate age of the person.
Bedouins were the first to use falcons for hunting and other pet purposes. But, today, Falcons are a symbol of one’s status, and sometimes they sell for as high as $1 million each, making falcon trade attractive to smugglers. This is why the UAE Government has issued Passports for falcons too.
The Ministry of Environment and Water can issue a falcon passport. This is usually valid for three years and costs around 130 USD. The falcon with a Passport gets an ID number which is tied to one of the legs of the falcon.
Falcons when traveling abroad go through the exact border control procedures as other travelers. The officials verify the ID number on passport and ensure the animal has got the same ID on his leg. Falcons get their Passport stamped when transferred abroad.
They are the only animals in the UAE that are legally allowed to travel inside planes. However, Falcons can only travel in business and first class. So, next time if you see a falcon seated beside you, do not be surprised.
Lufthansa Airlines has a custom-designed “falcon tray” for the animals on-board.
Monalisha Mallick
Creative soul. Writer. Traveler. Monalisha is infinitely curious about the world. When not answering questions about her career choice (graduation in Engineering and profession in writing), she enjoys going out to experience new places, savor fresh cuisines, meet people (many time weird) and soak in the culture from different eras and places.
Yemen’s Isolated Wonderland of Nature and Mystery
11 Feb 25
Triple the Thrills: Abu Dhabi's Theme Parks That Will Blow Your Mind
06 Feb 25
Discover Dubai on a Budget: Free Tourist Places in Dubai
06 Feb 25
Saudi Arabia Travel Tips: Ensure a Smooth and Enjoyable Journey
04 Feb 25
February Escapes: The Best Destinations to Explore in India
03 Feb 25
UAE National Day Weekend – What to do & Where to go
24 Nov 20
The Hidden Cultural Attractions of Kuwait Revealed
06 Jun 18
Paris Street Art – The World is Their Canvas
16 Sep 18
Eid Holidays in Alexandria
24 Jul 18
RIYADH OASIS- Experience magic amidst sand dunes!
22 Dec 21
Revealing the Hidden Gems of Middle East & North Africa
02 Mar 18
Top 10 Countries that Saudis can Travel without a Visa in 2025
08 May 18
World Happiness Report for 2018 is Out – There are 5 Countries from the Arab World
16 Mar 18
Eid Around the World: Unique Traditions from 5 Countries
05 Jun 18
Best beaches in the Middle East
22 Apr 20