ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has unveiled a new support scheme for Emirati houbara breeders at ADIHEX 2026. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative aims to assist existing houbara production projects as well as those planning to establish new breeding facilities. It provides specialized training, technical support, and access to established breeding expertise. The program also enforces standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of facilities.
Participation in the initiative requires breeders to go through a formal registration and assessment process. Applicants must undergo evaluation before receiving final approval. Registration does not automatically guarantee acceptance, and breeders must meet specific criteria to qualify for support. This process enables specialists to evaluate each applicant’s readiness and identify areas where additional training or technical help may be necessary.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will be responsible for managing the program and overseeing its scientific and technical aspects. The organization acts as a strategic partner for IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives both within the UAE and internationally. Its duties include facilitating the practical implementation of the program and coordinating services for participating breeders. The launch was announced during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Specialized training enhances breeding practices
Breeders and their teams who are accepted into the program will receive expert training through Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The curriculum includes courses and workshops focused on responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and facility management. The training also covers operational procedures used in managed breeding programs. Participants completing the necessary courses can earn certificates, and ongoing technical support will be provided by specialists involved in the initiative.
After passing assessments and completing training, eligible breeders may also receive breeding birds through a right-to-use arrangement. This support complements the educational and technical assistance features of the program. The IFHC designed this initiative to give breeders access to knowledge accumulated through its extensive conservation efforts. The program combines breeder assessment, formal instruction, and continuous support within a comprehensive participation framework.
Launch held at ADIHEX to promote the initiative
With over four decades of experience, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has engaged in breeding, research, release, and conservation activities related to houbara bustards. Its efforts span projects within the UAE and collaborations across countries within the species’ native range. This new breeder-focused initiative channels that extensive expertise into a structured program for private participants, emphasizing welfare, biosecurity, and training requirements as core elements of participation.
Breeders can sign up via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the presence of IFHC and Ekthar at ADIHEX 2026. The event runs at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 through September 6. Applicants must go through registration followed by assessment to secure final acceptance. Qualified breeders will then be eligible for training, technical guidance, and access to breeding birds under the program’s established participation conditions.