Throughout August, organisers of the Abu Dhabi Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex) have been travelling throughout the GCC countries to spread word about the 13th exhibition which will take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from September 9-12.

According to the organising committee, the exhibition space is nearly fully booked, close to 90 per cent. Exhibitors from Arab countries are predominant, but altogether, companies from 50 countries have already booked stands at the Adihex 2015.

Everything from arts and crafts, off-road and safari products to weapons, falcons and falconry equipment will be available at the exhibition.

While trade, particularly for falconers, remains the focus of the exhibition Emirati culture and heritage are heavily promoted through various activities, and this year is no different.

Returning to Adihex this year are the best saluki competitions, camel auctions, falcon beauty competitions and Bedouin poetry.

"For me, Adihex is the best annual event in Abu Dhabi. I never miss it," said Saeed Al Rumaithi, an Emirati engineer from Abu Dhabi.

"In a way, it's like going back in time. There are traditional-style majlis, kids' village, fresh Arabic coffee made on the spot, Emirati folklore.... All these are nice to see, but I never leave empty-handed."

"I love camping and every year I spend about two weeks with my family in the desert, and I always find something useful to buy at Adihex. Last year, for example, I got a beautifully carved pocketknife and a portable shower that can be fixed in the car. Both of them proved useful," he told Khaleej Times.

Over 200,000 visitors are expected at the 13th Adihex which will give away around Dh500,000 cash awards to competition winners, which this year include painting, photography, poetry, falcons and salukis.

The four days exhibition, considered among the biggest in the world attracted 640 exhibitors from 48 countries last year. This year Abu Dhabi Falconers' Club, its main organiser, hopes to attract even more, particularly after the organising committee's promotional tour, which starts in Dubai on August 17.
Source: Khaleej Times