Abu Dhabi falcon sold for $571,000, smashing world auction record

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Abu Dhabi falcon sold for $571,000, smashing world auction record

September 7, 2026

DUBAI,— A snow-white falcon fetched AED 2.1 million ($571,000) at the closing sale of this year’s Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, ADIHEX 2026, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for a falcon, the state-run news agency reported.

The bird, a Gyr Pure Ultra White, came from the United States and drew fierce competition among buyers before the winning bid was placed.

Falconry experts say the breed stands out for its unusually rare white feathers, clean bloodline and striking looks, qualities that made it the most wanted falcon at this year’s ADIHEX sales.

The falcon auctions remain one of the exhibition’s biggest draws each year, reflecting both the deep roots of falconry in Emirati culture and growing global interest in high-value birds of prey.

Organizers said ADIHEX keeps promoting the sport through special programs, contests and displays meant to pass the tradition down to younger generations.

The event has long brought together falconers, breeders, collectors and hobbyists who see falconry as a lasting symbol of heritage across the UAE and the wider Gulf region.

The record sale came days after another notable auction at the same event.

A white falcon sold for $300,000 at Abu Dhabi auction, UAE, August 31, 2026 — A white falcon sold for AED 1.1 million ($300,000) at Abu Dhabi auction, UAE, August 31, 2026. Photo: WAM

On August 31, organizers held the sixth bidding round of ADIHEX 2026 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, where a Gyr Pure Ultra White chick sold for AED 1.1 million, or roughly $300,000, in front of a packed crowd.

The chick was bred by American breeder Mark Mogulitch and weighed 1,460 grams, measuring 18.5 inches in both length and width.

That round pulled in a wide mix of specialists, breeders, farm owners and enthusiasts from across the globe, drawn by the exhibition’s reputation for tough grading rules.

Judges there weigh bloodline purity, physical condition, and looks such as color, feather length and symmetry, along with a bird’s record in beauty contests and hunting events.

(With files from WAM)