Doha’s Falcon Souq keeps a century-old tradition alive

DOHA, Qatar Jan 14 – Falconry is one of the world’s oldest hunting traditions with a documented history spanning over 4,000 years. Introduced from Central Asia around the 7th century, Bedouin tribes of the Arabian Peninsula relied on falcons’ speed, sharp eyesight and innate hunting instincts to survive in the harsh desert, long before the rise of modern urbanisation.

Today, this practical survival skill has evolved into a revered cultural tradition embedded in local folklore, poetry and royal customs. The Falcon market at Doha’s Souq Waqif is more than just a marketplace for local enthusiasts. It is a living landmark where visitors can experience firsthand the legacy of falconry in Qatari culture.

Aziz, 65, is the owner of a falcon shop in the market. Originally from Pakistan, he came to Qatar in 1993. In 2012, Aziz opened his first falcon shop. He has since expanded to three shops in Qatar and employs 22 workers including three of his sons.

According to Aziz, a falcon can fetch prices anywhere from 2,000 up to 1.75 million Qatari riyals (around HK$4,280 to HK$3,600,000).

Among his collection, the most unique falcon is Rambo, a Gyrfalcon bred in Germany. With mostly white feathers and brown spots, this bird belongs to one of the largest birds of prey in the falcon family. In ancient times, northern emperors prized them for their outstanding hunting skills.