9th edition of S'hail concludes with record turnout

The curtain came down on the 9th Katara Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S'hail 2025) yesterday, after five consecutive days of unprecedented public turnout, reinforcing its position as the largest regional and international platform of its kind.The highlights included a Mongolian Shaheen falcon fetching a record QR777,000 in the auction at the event.There was a ceremony yesterday honouring the members of the Supreme Organising Committee and official sponsors, in recognition of their efforts in ensuring the success of the event.This year’s edition welcomed the participation of over 200 local and international companies representing 17 countries: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Lebanon, Pakistan, the UK, the US, Hungary, Russia, Ireland, Poland, France, Portugal, Spain, Lithuania, and South Africa.Alongside its commercial activities, the exhibition featured diverse events such as the electronic falcon auction offering rare and prized species, a series of cultural and artistic activities, scientific lectures, and fine arts workshops.Together, these enriched the cultural and artistic diversity of the exhibition, offering visitors a unique experience that blended authenticity, heritage, and creativity."The continued success achieved by S’hail each year reflects its distinguished status as a global event that brings together falcon and hunting enthusiasts under one roof,” said Salem Mabhkout al-Marri, the director of Public Relations and Communications at Katara. "The massive turnout is clear evidence of the exhibition’s growing appeal locally and internationally, and a strong message affirming the deep connection to heritage and identity.”The final day saw the crowning of the winners of various competitions:* Best Garage: Issa al-Shaib (C30 Desert Motors) – prize of QR15,000* Best Pavilion: Abdulaziz al-Kuwari (A10 Carvers of Peninsula) – prize of QR15,000* Best Burqa (falcon hood):** First place – Saif al-Shammari (prize of $3,000)** Second place – Omar Malik (UK) with a prize of $2,000** Third place – Pablo (Spain) with a prize of $1,000.The S’hail Falcon Auction underscored the high interest in falconry and Qatar’s commitment to preserving and passing on this heritage to future generations.Over 30 wild falcons were presented, sparking excitement and competitive bidding among falconry enthusiasts.Record prices were achieved:* September 10 – a Mongolian Shaheen sold for QR201,000 to Mohammed al-Mannai* September 11 – another of the same breed sold for QR215,250 to Mohammed al-Shahwani* September 12 – a Mongolian Shaheen sold for QR299,999 to Nayef Mohammed al-Shahwani* September 13 – another fetched a record QR777,000, purchased by Saeed al-Mashhadi.Mohammed Abdullah al-Attiyah (Qatar) described S'hail 2025's organisation as "worthy of the largest international event dedicated to hunting and falconry heritage and desert expeditions”, praising the excellent services and team spirit.Badr Mohammed Saeb (the UAE) called it "a grand festival bringing together hunting enthusiasts from around the world”, noting its focus on Qatar’s market needs and innovative products at affordable prices.Sayel al-Khudair (Ra’i Al-Nawader) praised the efficiency, hospitality, and streamlined procedures, highlighting the overwhelming turnout.Eyad Obaidallah (Sahara UK) expressed pride in participating for the ninth consecutive year, stressing that the exhibition has gained wide international fame through the presence of leading global and local companies.