Falconry is inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list and holds deep significance in Emirati society. For travel agents building culturally rich UAE itineraries, a well-executed falconry experience is one of the most distinctive and memorable inclusions available — distinct from the shopping, skylines, and desert safaris that dominate standard Dubai programmes.
Understanding the Product Before You Sell It
There is a meaningful difference between a photo opportunity with a falcon at a camel farm stop and a genuine falconry experience. Agents should understand this distinction before positioning the product to clients.
A genuine falconry experience involves: - An introduction to the history and cultural importance of falconry in the Gulf - Interaction with trained falcons under the supervision of an experienced falconer (falconer, not just a handler) - Demonstrations of hunting flight techniques, glove training, and lure work - Opportunity for clients to hold and fly the falcon themselves — typically three to five individual flight experiences per group session - Contextual education about falcon types (Peregrine, Saker, and Gyr Falcons are most commonly used in UAE falconry), their care, and the relationship between falconer and bird
A photo-stop at a camel farm may include a falcon on a perch that guests can photograph or briefly hold. This is not a falconry experience and should not be marketed as one.
Experience Formats and Group Suitability
Half-day dedicated falconry experience (3–4 hours): Best suited for small groups of 4–15 passengers. Held in a desert environment, typically in the Dubai or Abu Dhabi hinterland. Includes transport, a licensed falconer and assistant, and a minimum of two active falcons per session. This is the premium format.
Desert camp add-on (45–60 minutes): A falconry demonstration integrated into an evening desert camp programme. Works for larger groups of 20–40 passengers. Less interactive but highly visual and culturally resonant as part of a broader evening experience. Pairs naturally with our luxury and celebrations desert camp product.
Cultural day tour integration: Falconry demonstrations at venues such as the Abu Dhabi Falconers' Club or dedicated heritage sites can be incorporated into full-day Abu Dhabi cultural tours. Coordinate through our tours and experiences desk for itinerary integration.
Seasonal Timing
Falconry season in the UAE runs October through March, aligning with peak tourist season. During summer months (May–September), the heat limits outdoor falconry activities. Indoor demonstrations at air-conditioned heritage centres are available year-round, but the authentic desert setting is only comfortable outside of the summer months.
For agents booking UAE itineraries with a summer departure, plan falconry as an indoor cultural centre visit rather than an outdoor experience, and set client expectations accordingly.
Pricing and What's Included
Dedicated half-day falconry experiences for groups of up to 10 passengers start at approximately AED 3,500–5,000 per session, inclusive of transport from a Dubai or Abu Dhabi hotel, falconer and assistant fees, and light refreshments. Per-person cost for groups of 10 comes to AED 350–500, which positions it as a premium cultural activity rather than a commodity tour stop.
For larger groups requiring a falconry demonstration at a desert camp, pricing is typically per performance (AED 1,500–2,500 for a 45-minute demonstration) regardless of group size.
Briefing Your Clients
Falconry etiquette matters. Brief clients to: - Wear long sleeves and avoid bright, reflective clothing (startles the birds) - Move slowly and calmly around the falcons - Follow all falconer instructions regarding when to raise or lower the glove - Avoid sudden loud noises or camera flash directly at the birds - Respect that the falconer may withdraw a bird if it shows signs of stress
Children aged 8 and above can typically participate in supervised glove-flying. Younger children can observe but should be kept calm and quiet.
The B2B Advantage of DMC Contracting
Falconry experiences are operated by a small number of licensed specialists in the UAE. Direct access as an overseas agent is difficult — most operators prioritise relationships with established local partners. A contracted DMC gives you consistent access, confirmed availability, and the ability to hold sessions during peak season without full prepayment.
Visit Explera to enquire about falconry experience allocations and to request net pricing for your client programmes. Certificates of participation can be arranged for corporate and incentive groups on request.
