Sheikh Faisal's book on falconry to be released at S’hail Exhibition

Al Faisal Global Foundation for Culture and Knowledge, in collaboration with Al Faisal Publishing, will launch a new book by H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani entitled "Memories of Falconry: From Survival Necessity to Hobbyist Pleasure.” The launch will take place during the Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition (S’hail 2025), held at Katara Cultural Village from September 10 to 14.The book presents Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim’s rich personal and cultural journey across more than 100 falconry expeditions in Qatar and abroad. It documents the historic transformation of falconry—from a vital means of survival in the past, when people relied on trained falcons and Saluki dogs to hunt houbara, rabbits, and gazelles, to today’s pursuit of sport, leisure, and tradition cherished by falconers and enthusiasts across Qatar and the wider Gulf region."I sought in this book to record what I have witnessed, heard, and lived through in over a hundred falconry journeys within and beyond Qatar, with the aim of preserving this authentic heritage for future generations, as well as for all those interested in the culture of Qatar, the Gulf, and the Arabian Peninsula,” said Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim.He praised the efforts of the State, under the guidance of its wise leadership, in safeguarding national heritage through numerous institutions, initiatives, and exhibitions. "Launching the book during S’hail aligns perfectly with the exhibition’s mission and its status as a leading regional and international destination for falconry and hunting enthusiasts,” he added, commending the organizers for elevating S’hail into a "global platform that brings together falconers, hobbyists, and experts from around the world under one roof.”Sheikh Faisal further emphasized that the strong turnout and enthusiasm S’hail receives from all generations, especially young people, inspired the creation of this book. "Falconry has always been, and continues to be, a school of patience, responsibility, and self-reliance—an enduring pillar of Qatari and Gulf identity,” he noted.The 446-page volume is structured into eight main chapters, each rich with real-life stories and vivid recollections. These include "A Day in the recent Falconry Expedition,” "Men and Falcons – Sons of Nature,” "Falconry of the Old Days,” "The Sport of Kings and Princes,” "Falconry: A School of Manhood,” "Perilous Expeditions,” and "Hunting to the Rhythm of Shellfire.” Alongside its storytelling, the book is illustrated with a rare archival collection of photographs capturing adventures, challenges, humorous encounters, and unique moments, making it both a visual and written chronicle of falconry life.Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim expressed his hope that the book will serve as a lasting reference for future generations. He added that he aspires for it to contribute, even in a modest way, to enriching human knowledge of the balance that Qatar—through its leadership and people—has achieved between embracing modernity and global openness while preserving its cultural heritage, particularly through the living tradition of falconry handed down across generations.