ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has unveiled a fresh support initiative for Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. This Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is aimed at existing breeding projects and individuals planning to develop new facilities. It provides expert training, technical support, and access to established breeding knowledge. The program also imposes standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of facilities.
To participate, breeders are required to undergo a formal registration and evaluation process. They must pass an assessment to gain full acceptance into the program. Registration alone does not ensure participation, as applicants must fulfill specific criteria to qualify for support. This process allows specialists to assess each applicant’s preparedness and pinpoint areas where additional training or technical aid might be necessary.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will be responsible for managing the program and supervising its scientific and technical aspects. Serving as a strategic partner for IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives both within the UAE and internationally, the organization will assist in the practical implementation of the initiative and coordinate services for participating breeders. The program’s launch coincided with the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Structured training enhances breeding standards
Breeders and their teams who are accepted will benefit from specialized training via Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum includes responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and management of breeding facilities. The training also emphasizes operational procedures used in managed breeding programs. Those who complete the courses will be eligible for certification, while technical guidance will continue to be provided throughout their participation.
Participants meeting the criteria may also be granted breeding birds through a rights-based agreement following assessments and training completion. This support complements the program’s educational and technical services. The initiative was developed by IFHC to give breeders access to knowledge accumulated through its extensive conservation efforts. It combines breeder assessment, formal training, and ongoing support within a unified framework.
ADIHEX serves as the platform for the program’s debut
With over forty years of experience, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been engaged in breeding, research, releases, and conservation activities related to houbara bustards. Its efforts include projects within the UAE and collaborative ventures across regions where the species is native. The new breeder support initiative translates this extensive expertise into a structured program for private participants, emphasizing animal welfare, biosecurity, and training standards as core requirements.
Breeders can sign up through the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative portal or via the IFHC and Ekthar booths at ADIHEX 2026. The event is scheduled at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6. After registering, applicants must undergo an assessment process to qualify for final acceptance. Successful candidates will then gain access to training, technical assistance, and breeding birds under the program’s established terms.