The inaugural Al Ain International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition 2025 has cast a well-deserved spotlight on the Arabian Saluki, celebrating this iconic desert hound as both a master hunter and cultural treasure. This graceful yet powerful breed continues to captivate breeders, hunting enthusiasts, and cultural preservationists across the UAE and beyond with its unique combination of speed, intelligence, and loyalty.
For centuries, the Saluki has served as more than merely a hunting companion—it has evolved as a desert-native breed meticulously shaped by the harsh demands of its environment. Its exceptional terrain navigation capabilities, breathtaking sprinting speed, and profound loyalty to handlers have secured its permanent place within Emirati heritage. Modern breeders now dedicate themselves to maintaining the breed’s purity and traditional characteristics.
Renowned breeder Abduljalal Samina, exhibiting at the event, emphasized to Khaleej Times that genuine Salukis are ‘born with the passion for the chase.’ He clarified that the breed’s value derives not from monetary price but from documented lineage, proven performance capabilities, and the quality of the bond formed with its owner. ‘Some dogs are priceless,’ Samina noted, referencing top-tier specimens that excel in both aesthetic competitions and speed trials.
The exhibition showcases Salukis across multiple categories, including show-quality presentations and those specifically trained for high-velocity hunting and racing competitions. Judges employ comprehensive evaluation criteria examining physical attributes and behavioral characteristics: overall body structure, agility, stance, muscle definition, and the dog’s innate responsiveness to its handler.
Beyond physical prowess, the event highlights the Saluki’s deep cultural significance. For many Emirati families, raising and training these dogs represents an intergenerational tradition. The breed embodies cherished cultural values including patience, strength, and humanity’s historical connection to the desert environment.
As visitors explore Hall 2, they encounter living representations of Emirati history—each Saluki serves as a testament to loyalty, specialized skills, and enduring desert heritage. With growing international interest in the breed, exhibitions like this play an increasingly vital role in preserving and promoting this iconic symbol of UAE national identity.