The significant momentum witnessed by the ongoing Katara International Hunting and Falconry Exhibition S’hail 2023 embodies the prestigious position it has assumed as a regional and international platform, gathering thousands of falconers, hunting enthusiasts, and nature lovers from Qatar and various countries.
The exhibition yesterday witnessed the visit of several state guests, including Hamza Abdi Bari, the Prime Minister of Somalia. The other dignitaries included Ahlibank chairman HE Sheikh Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Jassem al-Thani, HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali al-Thani, HE Dr Mohammed bin Saleh al-Sada, and diplomats, a statement from Katara said.
Abdulaziz al-Sayed, the exhibition director, said: “Since the first day of the exhibition, we have observed strong indicators, whether in terms of the crowd density, reflecting a great deal of enthusiasm to attend and follow the latest developments in the field of hunting and falconry, or in terms of participation. This is evident through the diversity of companies and products displayed. Many companies have made sure that S’hail is the occasion to showcase their premier products.
“This is clear evidence that the exhibition has established its leading position among major international exhibitions specialised in this field. It has become a global platform with the presence of 190 companies, including more than 13 falcon and prey breeding farms, and 13 companies in the automotive equipment sector.
“This field has become a source of pride in Qatar, especially with the presence of professional youth experiences in equipping hunting cars with the highest standards of quality and luxury. We also do not overlook camping companies and the participation of 11 weapon companies with their finest and latest global brands to meet the desires of the public. Through our communication with exhibitors, we have noticed complete satisfaction, whether in terms of purchasing or participating in S’hail.”
The seventh edition of the Katara International Falcon and Hunting Exhibition is witnessing a surge in interest for high-end optical products, reflecting a booming demand in the Middle East region.
Among the standout exhibitors, Swarovski Optik, showcases its cutting-edge binoculars, rifle scopes, telescopes, and other precision instruments tailored for falconry and hunting enthusiasts.
Khaled Saba, sales manager of Swarovski Optik Middle East, underscored the vital role their optics play in the world of falconry and hunting, saying: “All the falconers use our products to watch their birds, and we have the best optics so you can see all the details of the bird and even the prey.”
Saba also revealed Swarovski's latest innovation, a binocular with an integrated rangefinder, set for delivery this October. This compact and lightweight product is poised to revolutionise the field, offering both functionality and precision in one.
Over the past two years, Swarovski Optik Middle East has experienced significant growth in the Qatari market. Saba attributed this success to a robust partnership and expressed optimism for continued expansion.
While customers in the region are familiar with Swarovski's binoculars, the introduction of rifle scopes is a relatively recent development. “Rifle scopes have been sold recently here so people are getting to know about it,” explained Saba.
The surge in demand for high-quality optics is not confined to falconry and hunting alone. The growing outdoor business sector and the flourishing tourism industry in Qatar and the Middle East region have further amplified the appeal of Swarovski's products among nature enthusiasts, hunters, and birders.
“The outdoor business and tourism are on the rise in the region, making our products the perfect tools for these nature lovers and hunters," stated Saba, highlighting the brand’s alignment with regional trends.
As the exhibition continues, Swarovski Optik anticipates even greater engagement and the opportunity to showcase more exciting offerings. “Last year also I was here and this year, it looks good and we are hoping to have more customers and more interesting things to do here," Saba concluded, reflecting the company's enthusiasm for the event which concludes tomorrow (Saturday).
