Unique and diverse offerings at the 7th Katara International Falcon and Hunting Exhibition ‘S’hail’ – designed to enhance experiences in falconry, hunting and camping – has been drawing massive crowds since its opening on September 5.
This year’s exhibition, scheduled to conclude today (September 9) at Katara – Cultural Village, introduced groundbreaking and eco-friendly innovations poised to redefine such outdoor endeavours.
S’hail 2023 puts a spotlight on a range of cutting-edge and sustainable technologies and practices such as the use of solar panels at tents, especially during the camping season. This, according to exhibitors, reflects a wider shift towards embracing sustainable living methods.
This breakthrough in camping technology not only prioritises sustainability but also promises significant cost and energy savings by powering tents round-the-clock, making it ideal for desert camping.
A number of companies at S’hail attracted many visitors for their modified and customised off-road vehicles, as well as hunting equipment. Equipped with advanced technologies, these vehicles were designed to navigate diverse climatic and environmental conditions.
The exhibition showcases a comprehensive range of accessories and services, ensuring both the exterior and interior components of these vehicles are optimised for performance and comfort.
Various selections of mobile caravans and homes adhere to the highest standards of craftsmanship and quality, putting them in direct competition with renowned international brands. They are equipped with innovative features, including cutting-edge sound and heat insulation, and can be modified to meet specific customer preferences. These mobile spaces offer a luxurious and comfortable experience, with amenities that rival those of a traditional home.
S’hail features dedicated pavilions for rifles and pistols, citing the growing appeal of both traditional falconry and advanced hunting equipment in Qatar and the Middle East. An array of weapons, mainly for hunting pursuits, are displayed at several booths and the popularity of certain brands among hunters and falconers attests to their outstanding quality and performance.
S’hail visitors also have the chance to explore the different collections of hand-crafted knives from Wazirabad, Pakistan, in which the designs and built reflect the rich heritage and preferences of Qatar and Middle Eastern markets.
A number of enthusiasts find these intricately fashioned blades unique and a must-have since they have been meticulously created for hunting, falcontry, and camping.
The exhibition underlines the longstanding and centuries-old tradition of knife craftsmanship in Wazirabad, presenting specially crafted knives that honour the local culture.
Doha-based artists contribute to the appeal of the exhibition with their pieces, focusing on falconry and hunting. Like other artists at S’hail, Qatari artist Mohamed al-Saad’s work reflects the rich culture and heritage of Qatar and the Arab world.
Several other artists who are showcasing their works aim to highlight the significance of falcons in the country's heritage, lauding the organisation of S’hail for providing a valuable platform for artists to showcase their talent.
The Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital, known for treating approximately 35,000 birds annually, continues to provide exceptional avian healthcare at S’hail. Director Dr Ikdam Majed AlKarkhi emphasises the hospital’s comprehensive range of medical services tailoured for falcons, including advanced examinations and assessments aimed at evaluating the health of vital organs.
In addition to various types of falcon breeds, S’hail also features a shooting booth for practice and competition, remote-controlled planes and drones, leather gears and accessories for falconry, cutting-edge medical equipment for falcons and other birds, and other camping and hunting equipment such as high-tech binoculars and rifle scopes, among others. These diverse offerings further enhance the experience for visitors and enthusiasts alike.
A booth at S’hail has become one of the main attractions, showcasing preserved creatures like tigers, bears, and falcons, alongside other animals, presented by JP Gerard Simon Taxidermy.
Noting a growing enthusiasm among youngsters on falconry, falconer Farhan al-Sayed told Gulf Times that many children, mostly around 10 to 14 years old, visit the Souq Waqif.
“They roam around Souq Waqif because they were able to save money to buy falcons,” he said, adding that this trend shows a growing interest in such a healthy hobby instead of buying an electronic gadget.
Al-Sayed said engaging in this activity is beneficial for society as it encourages youngsters to stay occupied, transitioning from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one.
“It promotes a healthy, traditional approach to pet ownership, allowing young students to attend school while also caring for a pet and learning responsible handling,” he added.