Abu Dhabi Police Chief Visits Iconic 'Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition'

Abu Dhabi Police Chief Highlights UAE's Cultural Heritage Strategy at Middle East's Premier Hunting and Equestrian Expo

Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoun Al Muhairi's visit to the 22nd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition underscores the UAE's strategic approach to preserving cultural identity while modernizing security capabilities. The event, running until September 7th at ADNEC, represents more than a trade show—it's a calculated effort to position Abu Dhabi as the regional hub for heritage-based industries worth billions globally.

Security Meets Tradition in Strategic Display

During his tour of the Abu Dhabi Police pavilion, Al Muhairi examined specialized units that blend traditional practices with modern law enforcement. The showcase included the Abu Dhabi Police Mounted Unit, K9 Security Inspection Department, and Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority platforms—a demonstration of how the emirate integrates cultural elements into contemporary security operations.

This approach reflects a broader UAE strategy seen across government sectors, where traditional practices like falconry and horsemanship are preserved not just culturally but as practical skills within modern institutions. The police mounted units, for instance, serve operational purposes in crowd control and patrol duties while maintaining cultural continuity.

Regional Positioning in Heritage Tourism and Trade

ADIHEX's claim as the Middle East and North Africa's largest event in its category positions Abu Dhabi strategically against regional competitors. While Qatar focuses on luxury hunting tourism and Saudi Arabia develops its outdoor recreation sector under Vision 2030, the UAE leverages its established infrastructure and regulatory framework to capture market share in heritage-based tourism and equipment trade.

Economic Implications for Specialized Industries

The hunting and equestrian equipment market represents a significant economic opportunity, with global hunting tourism alone valued at over $200 billion annually. By hosting such events, Abu Dhabi attracts international manufacturers, distributors, and high-net-worth individuals who drive both immediate exhibition revenue and longer-term investment in related sectors.

The presence of multiple government agencies at the exhibition also signals regulatory clarity—a key factor for international businesses considering regional market entry. This coordinated approach mirrors successful models in Singapore and Switzerland, where government backing transforms niche events into major economic drivers.

Cultural Soft Power Strategy

Al Muhairi's emphasis on "national capabilities" in organizing international specialized events reflects the UAE's broader soft power objectives. By showcasing traditional practices like falconry—recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage—the emirate strengthens its cultural diplomacy while generating economic returns.

This strategy proves particularly effective in attracting visitors from Europe and North America, where hunting and equestrian sports maintain strong followings among affluent demographics. The combination of authentic cultural experiences with luxury infrastructure creates a compelling value proposition that competitors struggle to replicate.

The integration of traditional heritage with modern capabilities at events like ADIHEX demonstrates how the UAE transforms cultural assets into economic advantages, setting a template for other Gulf states seeking to diversify beyond oil-dependent sectors.