ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – The International Fund for Houbara Conservation has introduced a new support scheme for Emirati houbara breeders during ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The Houbara Breeders Support Initiative is aimed at those currently involved in houbara production projects as well as individuals planning to set up new breeding facilities, providing specialized training, technical support, and access to seasoned breeding expertise. It also establishes standards related to animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management of breeding sites.
To participate, breeders must go through a formal registration and evaluation process, where applicants are assessed before receiving final approval; registration alone does not guarantee acceptance, and meeting the initiative’s criteria is necessary to qualify for support. This process enables experts to evaluate each applicant’s preparedness and identify areas where additional training or technical help may be needed.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will manage the program and oversee its scientific and technical aspects. As a strategic partner for IFHC projects, centers, and initiatives both inside and outside the UAE, the company supports the practical implementation of the scheme and coordinates services for participating breeders. The program was launched at ADNEC during the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition.
Comprehensive training enhances breeding standards
Breeders and their teams will benefit from specialized training through Abu Dhabi Nature Academy, which includes courses and workshops on responsible houbara breeding, animal welfare, biosecurity, and management of breeding facilities. The program also covers operational practices used in managed breeding systems. Those who complete the required courses can earn certificates, and ongoing technical guidance will be provided by specialists throughout their participation.
Participants who meet eligibility criteria may also be granted breeding birds via a right-to-use agreement after passing assessments and completing training, supplementing the program’s educational and technical support components. IFHC crafted this initiative to give breeders access to knowledge accumulated through its extensive conservation efforts. The program integrates breeder evaluation, formal education, and continuous assistance within a unified participation framework.
ADIHEX serves as the program’s launch event
Having operated for over forty years in houbara breeding, research, releases, and conservation, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has engaged in projects within the UAE and collaborated across countries within the species’ native range. The new breeder initiative translates this extensive expertise into a structured program aimed at private participants, emphasizing clearly defined welfare, biosecurity, and training standards for involvement.
Breeders can register via the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or through the IFHC and Ekthar presence at ADNEC during ADIHEX 2026, which runs from August 28 to September 6 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Successful applicants must undergo assessment before gaining final acceptance and, upon qualification, can access training, technical support, and eligible breeding birds under the program’s established participation terms.