Falcon souq, Bird market in Souq Waqif, Doha, Qatar.
Falcon Souq is a specialized bird market nestled within Souq Waqif where dozens of falcons sit in wooden enclosures awaiting sale or breeding. The stalls around it stock leather hoods, bells, gloves, scales, and all the equipment needed to care for these birds.
This market stems from Bedouin trading practices, where desert hunters trained and exchanged falcons for centuries. The location represents how that heritage found a permanent home within the traditional souq structure.
Falconry remains woven into daily life here, with families and collectors treating these birds as valued companions and status symbols. The market reflects how this ancient practice continues to matter deeply to people in Qatar today.
The souq operates daily, with a veterinary clinic nearby offering care and vaccinations for the birds. Visit early in the morning to see the most activity, and wear comfortable shoes since the walkways are narrow and often crowded.
During November, the market hosts specialized auctions where breeders present their finest falcons and collectors compete for rare specimens. These events attract enthusiasts from across the Gulf region seeking to acquire birds with exceptional bloodlines or training records.
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