S’hail 2024, the eighth edition of Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition, will conclude Saturday after attracting thousands of visitors to the popular event where timeless falconry meets cutting-edge innovation. The timing is from 10am to 10pm.

In a captivating fusion of tradition and modernity, S’hail 2024 showcases a treasure trove of the latest innovations in falconry, hunting weaponry, and outdoor adventure gear.

Malika bint Mohammed al-Shraim, a member of the Supreme Organising Committee and director of marketing at Katara - Cultural Village, said: "Each year, we strive to enhance its grandeur, and this year visitors will notice significant upgrades, from the exhibition's expanded scale and increased international participation to the diverse pavilions and new competitions”.

S'hail 2024 provides an excellent platform for Qatari businesses to showcase their products to both local audiences and global counterparts, fostering greater collaboration and exchange, she explained.

For the first time, the exhibition features a special competition for children aged 10 to 16, encouraging them to explore the world of hunting and falconry. Talal al-Rweili, attending the event with his son for the first time, expressed his joy: “It’s an extraordinary experience for my son to win a falcon at S’hail. This exhibition is a wonderful way to introduce our children to our cherished traditions. It links them with the heritage of falconry, a cultural treasure we've upheld for generations.”

Saeed al-Merri, another enthusiast of the S’hail exhibition, shared his deep satisfaction with his son's newfound interest in falconry ignited by the event. He said: “Winning this falcon is more than just a prize; it’s an entryway to a journey of learning and valuing our traditions. I’m proud to see S’hail offer such enriching experiences for the younger generation.”

Mohammed al-Nuaimi, whose son was also a winner, voiced similar feelings: “This exhibition beautifully merges our past with our future. I am thrilled to witness my son’s excitement and see him develop a passion for falconry, a tradition I’ve always loved.”

S'hail 2024 is featuring a significant number of companies specialising in traditional products and artifacts. Dawaniya Al-Shamali Heritage Company showcased a diverse range of items, including meticulously crafted coffee pots, sugar bowls, and date trays.

Other heritage sector companies at the event include Nahatou Al-Jazeera, Jassim Al Linjawi, and Mashtaq, displaying traditional hunting tools and artifacts. The latest innovations in caravan and cabin design are on show. Among the standout exhibitors was the Luxury Marine Company, known for its 12m caravan featuring a 3m wide swimming pool. Ahmad al-Sada, the company’s owner, discussed the challenges faced during the six-month production process.

He noted that this caravan is the first of its kind in the Middle East, with locally sourced materials showcasing Qatar’s dedication to quality and innovation. Other exhibitors presented opulent 24m caravans with two bedrooms, a jacuzzi, and unique interior designs, priced over QR1mn.

Hamad al-Qahtani’s company highlighted its extensive expertise in the industry with locally developed caravans that have evolved to meet the increasing demand for high-quality products suited for desert adventures. S’hail 2024 has also become a vibrant platform for artistic expression, with 26 artists painting live, inspired by the desert landscapes and Qatar's rich falconry tradition.

Dr Zubair bin Haider Meidamal, a noted academic and falconry specialist, expressed his admiration for S’hail 2024 and its efforts to preserve and celebrate this ancient tradition. He is currently working on a 30-minute documentary titled *Falcons and Falconry in the Arabian Gulf*, which will be produced in both Arabic and English. The film will explore falconry in the Middle East, focusing on falcon breeds, their global significance, and the marvels of these birds, including their feeding habits, molting process, and health care, a statement from Katara added.