ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support program for Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative aims to assist existing houbara production projects as well as those planning to develop new breeding facilities. It provides specialized training, technical support, and access to expert knowledge in breeding. Additionally, the program establishes standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible facility management.
A formal registration and evaluation process has been implemented for breeders wishing to join the initiative. Applicants are required to undergo an assessment before receiving final approval. Registration alone does not guarantee participation, as breeders must satisfy the initiative’s criteria beforehand. This process enables specialists to evaluate each applicant’s readiness and identify areas needing further training or technical support.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will manage the program, overseeing its scientific and technical aspects. The company acts as a strategic operational partner for IFHC’s projects, centers, and programs both within the UAE and internationally. Its responsibilities include supporting the effective implementation of the initiative and coordinating services for participating breeders. The launch took place during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Structured training enhances breeding practices
Breeders accepted into the program and their teams will benefit from expert instruction provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. Training sessions and workshops will focus on responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity measures, and facility management. The curriculum will also include operational techniques used in managed breeding programs. Participants who complete the necessary courses can earn certificates, while specialists will continue offering technical guidance throughout their involvement.
Participants meeting the criteria may also qualify to receive breeding birds under a right to use agreement after passing assessments and training. This support complements the program’s educational and technical assistance elements. The IFHC designed the initiative to give breeders access to knowledge developed through its extensive conservation efforts. The program integrates breeder assessment, formal education, and ongoing support within a unified participation framework.
ADIHEX serves as the platform for launching the initiative
The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been engaged in houbara breeding, research, releases, and conservation activities for over 40 years. Its work includes projects within the UAE and collaborative efforts across the species’ native range. This new breeder-focused program consolidates that expertise into a structured framework for private breeders, emphasizing welfare, biosecurity, and training standards as fundamental requirements for participation.
Breeders can enroll via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the IFHC and Ekthar exhibits at ADIHEX 2026. The event runs at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6. Applicants must complete the registration process and undergo assessment before gaining final acceptance. Qualified participants can then access training, technical support, and eligible breeding birds under the program’s established participation conditions.