Three enterprising Emirati sisters are embracing the UAE’s rich falconry traditions to help their business dreams take flight.

Afra, Mariam and Salma Al Dhaheri got their family-run company, Al Sharagha Falconry, off the ground last year and are hoping one of the country’s biggest cultural events will be a springboard for further success.

They have joined more than 1,200 exhibitors from 65 countries at the 20th Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition, taking place this week at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

The siblings, from Salahah Island, 160km west of Abu Dhabi, initially crafted falconry equipment before they decided to start selling the prized birds of prey too.

Afra believes they are the first Emirati women to open their own falconry business.For 4,000 years, Bedouin in the UAE and wider Arabian Peninsula have practised falconry as a form of hunting.

It remains a popular sport and pastime and is a key feature of the UAE’s identity.

“We are immensely proud to be Emirati women contributing to the preservation and promotion of falconry in the UAE,” said Afra.

Their company offers a range of services, including falcon training and educational programmes for enthusiasts of all levels.

Despite being born on an island and more familiar with maritime culture, the sisters found their passion while visiting their relatives in Liwa Oasis.