Historically, falconry was a popular sport and status symbol among the nobles of medieval Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia. The falcon is also used for hunting in Arabia, and is an important part of the Arab heritage and culture. The UAE reportedly spends over $27 million annually towards the protection and conservation of wild falcons. There are two breeding farms in the Emirates, as well as those in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Every year, falcon beauty contests and demonstrations take place at the ADIHEX exhibition in Abu Dhabi. __