Active Participation by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage: Al-Kindi: Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition Showcases the Richness of Emirati Heritage and Enhances Its Global Presence
His Excellency Abubakr Al-Kindi, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, visited the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2026, currently taking place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from August 28 to September 6, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, under the theme “Our Heritage, Our Pride and Glory.”
The visit reflects the role played by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage in engaging with specialised institutions, initiatives and forums, exchanging expertise and experiences, and reinforcing its approach of supporting every platform that contributes to preserving Emirati heritage, introducing it to global audiences, and strengthening its presence on the international cultural scene.
Al-Kindi: Heritage is a Soft Power and a Renewed Identity
Mr. Abubakr Al-Kindi said that the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition proves year after year that heritage can serve as a form of soft power for Emirati cultural presence when presented as an integrated system of values, knowledge and skills, rather than merely as manifestations or artefacts from the past.
He explained that falconry, equestrianism and the practices and knowledge associated with them preserve an important part of the UAE community’s collective memory. He stressed that safeguarding them is a cultural responsibility that requires bringing together documentation, practice, education and innovation, ensuring that these elements remain living traditions capable of reaching future generations.
He added that what distinguishes the exhibition is its ability to place heritage at the heart of a global experience open to diverse cultures, providing Emirati heritage with a space to introduce itself and engage in dialogue with others. This demonstrates that when heritage is preserved and presented through innovative approaches, it does not remain confined to the past, but becomes a source of creativity, communication and greater awareness of identity.
Al-Kindi: When Heritage Becomes a Global Experience
Al-Kindi noted that the true value of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition lies in its ability to transform elements of heritage into a living experience shared by visitors from different cultures through shows, activities, competitions and interactive experiences.
He stressed that such events serve as a bridge between generations and cultures, enabling Emirati heritage to speak in a global language without losing its distinctive character and authenticity.
He pointed out that the exhibition offers an important model for how heritage can be leveraged to strengthen identity and foster cultural dialogue by blending authenticity with modernity. He praised the opportunities it provides to introduce traditions of hunting, equestrianism and falconry, and to highlight the values they embody, including patience, courage, skill and respect for nature—values that transcend geographical boundaries and form part of the shared human heritage.
A Global Forum for Heritage and Business
The exhibition offers a global experience bringing together enthusiasts, specialists and buyers from various countries. It provides a platform for networking, exchanging expertise, and showcasing products and services related to hunting, equestrianism, heritage and outdoor sports, opening avenues for commercial and cultural opportunities extending across the UAE, GCC markets and international markets.