ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / RankWire.AI / – For over forty years, International Fund for Houbara Conservation has engaged in breeding, research, and conservation efforts aimed at preserving the houbara species. Its initiatives have encompassed projects within the UAE as well as collaborative efforts across the native range of the bird. Recently, the organization introduced a structured support scheme for private breeders, emphasizing strict welfare, biosecurity, and training criteria.
This new program was unveiled during ADIHEX 2026, positioning itself as a comprehensive platform for Emirati houbara breeders to access specialized training, technical assistance, and guidance from established experts. The scheme is designed not only for current breeding operations but also for those planning to develop new facilities. It also incorporates animal welfare, biosecurity, and responsible management standards into its framework.
Prospective participants are required to undergo a formal registration and evaluation process prior to final approval. While registration is a prerequisite, it does not guarantee acceptance, as applicants must demonstrate they meet specific criteria before receiving support. This process enables specialists to assess each breeder’s readiness and pinpoint areas where additional training or technical support is necessary.
Ekthar Wildlife Development will oversee the program’s scientific and technical aspects. As a strategic partner for IFHC’s projects and initiatives both within the UAE and internationally, Ekthar is responsible for facilitating the program’s execution and coordinating services for participating breeders. Its involvement was announced at the 23rd Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
Specialized training enhances breeding quality
Participants approved through the process will benefit from targeted instruction provided by Abu Dhabi Nature Academy. The courses and workshops will cover responsible houbara breeding practices, animal welfare, biosecurity measures, and the management of breeding facilities. The training also emphasizes operational techniques employed in managed breeding programs. Successful attendees will receive certification, and expert guidance will continue during their involvement in the scheme.
Breeders who meet the criteria may also qualify to receive breeding birds under a right to use agreement following assessments and training completion. This additional support complements the educational and technical elements of the program. The initiative was designed by IFHC to leverage knowledge gained from its extensive conservation efforts, uniting breeder evaluation, formal instruction, and ongoing assistance within a unified framework.
ADIHEX serves as the platform for launching the program
With a history spanning more than four decades, the International Fund for Houbara Conservation has been deeply involved in breeding, research, release, and broader conservation activities for the species. Its work includes projects within the UAE and collaborative efforts with other nations within the bird’s natural habitat. The new initiative aims to embed this expertise into a formalized program tailored for private breeders, emphasizing specific welfare, biosecurity, and training standards.
Breeders interested in participating can register through the Houbara Breeders Support Initiative platform or directly via IFHC and Ekthar at ADIHEX 2026. The event, held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6, provides a chance for applicants to move from registration to assessment. Those who meet the criteria will then gain access to training, technical support, and breeding birds under the program’s established participation conditions.