ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a fresh support scheme for Emirati houbara breeders during ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative aims to assist existing breeding projects and individuals planning to develop new facilities. It provides specialized training, technical support, and access to established breeding expertise. The initiative also establishes standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of breeding sites.
A formal registration and evaluation process has been implemented for breeders wishing to participate. Applicants must undergo an assessment before receiving final approval for the program. Registration does not automatically guarantee participation, and individuals must fulfill the initiative’s criteria prior to obtaining support. This procedure enables specialists to evaluate each applicant’s readiness and pinpoint areas where additional training or technical help might be necessary.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will be responsible for managing the program and supervising its scientific and technical elements. The company acts as a strategic operational partner for IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives both within the UAE and internationally. Its responsibilities include facilitating the practical implementation of the scheme and coordinating services for participating breeders. The program’s launch coincided with the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Targeted training enhances breeding practices
Selected breeders and their teams will benefit from expert training delivered by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum will include responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity measures, and management of breeding facilities. Additionally, the courses will cover operational procedures relevant to managed breeding programs. Participants who complete the necessary courses can earn certificates, while ongoing technical guidance will be provided throughout their engagement in the initiative.
Breeders who meet the eligibility criteria may also gain access to breeding birds through a right-to-use agreement after passing assessments and completing training. This support is part of the program’s broader educational and technical assistance offerings. The IFHC developed this initiative to give breeders access to knowledge accumulated through its extensive work in houbara conservation. It combines breeder assessment, structured training, and continuous support within a unified participation framework.
ADIHEX serves as the launchpad for this new initiative
With over forty years of experience, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been involved in breeding, research, releases, and conservation programs for the species. Its efforts span projects within the UAE and collaborative work across countries within the houbara’s native range. The newly introduced breeder program consolidates this technical expertise into a structured scheme designed for private stakeholders. It emphasizes clear standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and professional training as core participation requirements.
Breeders can sign up through the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or by visiting the IFHC and Ekthar booths at ADIHEX 2026. The event runs from August 28 to September 6 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Applicants must move from registration to assessment to gain final acceptance into the program. Qualified candidates will then be able to access training, technical support, and breeding birds under the scheme’s established terms for participation.