ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme aimed at Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is designed to assist current houbara production projects as well as those planning to establish new breeding operations. The program provides expert training, technical advice, and access to established breeding specialists. It also establishes standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible facility management.
A structured registration and evaluation process has been set up for breeders wishing to join the program. Prospective participants are required to undergo an assessment before gaining final approval. Registration does not ensure acceptance, and applicants must fulfill the initiative’s criteria to receive assistance. This process enables specialists to evaluate each applicant’s preparedness and identify areas where further training or technical support may be needed.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will manage the program and oversee its scientific and technical aspects. The organization acts as a strategic partner for IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives within the UAE and internationally. Its responsibilities include supporting the operational delivery of the scheme and coordinating services for participating breeders. The launch occurred during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Specialist training enhances breeding standards
Selected breeders and their teams will benefit from targeted training via Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum includes courses and workshops on responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and management of breeding facilities. The training also focuses on operational practices used in managed breeding programs. Those completing the required courses can earn certificates, while ongoing technical support will be provided throughout their participation in the scheme.
Participants who meet the eligibility criteria may also be granted breeding birds through a right-to-use agreement after completing assessments and training. This support complements the program’s educational and technical assistance components. The initiative was developed by IFHC to give breeders access to the knowledge accumulated through its extensive houbara conservation efforts. It integrates breeder assessment, formal instruction, and continuous support into a unified participation framework.
ADIHEX serves as the launch platform for this new initiative
Having dedicated over forty years to houbara breeding, research, releases, and conservation, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has extensive experience working within the UAE and across the species’ native range. The new breeder support program channels this expertise into a structured scheme for private sector participants, emphasizing welfare, biosecurity, and training standards at its core.
Breeders interested in participating can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the IFHC and Ekthar presence at ADIHEX 2026. The event runs at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 through September 6. To join the program, applicants must complete registration and assessment procedures before receiving final acceptance. Successful applicants can then access training, technical support, and eligible breeding birds under the program’s established terms.