UAE Falcons Travel With Passports, Not Crates

Falcons in the United Arab Emirates are now traveling internationally with official government-issued passports, a practice that reflects a unique intersection of ancient tradition and modern regulation. This initiative ensures that these culturally significant birds can travel with ease for various purposes, including training, competitions, and veterinary care.

The UAE's passport system for falcons serves multiple critical functions. It acts as a primary identification document, verifying a falcon's identity, ownership, and health status. Furthermore, the passports are instrumental in combating illegal wildlife trade by confirming that the birds are captive-bred and legally owned, adhering to global conservation needs and wildlife regulations.

These documentation efforts facilitate a remarkable travel experience where falcons often fly in aircraft cabins alongside their handlers. Airlines such as Etihad and Qatar Airways permit these avian passengers, who are typically hooded to remain calm, to occupy their own seats, offering travelers an extraordinary glimpse into Middle Eastern heritage.

Falconry, recognized as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage, holds deep historical roots in Bedouin life for survival. The UAE's approach to falcon passports demonstrates a commitment to preserving this heritage through responsible practices and modern administrative solutions, ensuring the protection and continued cultural relevance of these revered birds.