Falcons are respected and honoured birds in the United Arab Emirates, with almost every family owning at least one of them if possible. These majestic birds of prey are regal, elegant and possess a commandeering presence. In fact the National Bird of the Emirates is the Saker Falcon.
Falcons, in time past, were used for hunting purposes in order to obtain meat for the household kitchens. The sport is now banned due to the near extinction of the prey. However these hunting trips are still held in various parts of Asia and South East Asia. The pet Falcons are now used for purposes of sport and beauty contests.
With such prized birds being in possession of many householders in the Emirates, 1999 saw the opening of the Emirates’ first public falcon hospital dedicated to catering to the many needs of these majestic birds. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital has seen over 42000 patients through their doors since its opening.
The Hospital offers high standards in treatment, diagnosis, care, and disease prevention with a high level of professionalism and dedication. These services are now extended to all types of birds and poultry as well. However Falcons remain the chief amongst the patients.
The hospital boats of advanced laboratories and treatment facilities with state of the art equipment and machinery. As part of its commitment towards developing Abu Dhabi’s tourism, the hospital also conducts tours of the facility with interactive programmes for visitors. The opening of the Shaheen Conference Centre in 2009 at the hospital premises has further extended the hospital’s services and the conference centre remains one of the most sought after facilities on offer for business and corporate functions as well as private functions.
Amongst the services offered at the hospital, which also allows for e-booking in order to facilitate better and faster service when booking treatments for avian pets, are pet clinic appointments, pet boarding, tourist visits and internships. The procedures available for the birds include feather replacement, beak oiling and polishing, pedicures and other ailment treatments.
If visiting this city and looking for Abu Dhabi hotels from which to base yourself then an Abu Dhabi city hotel such as the prestigious and centrally located Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi will be ideal.
