Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital treats over 7,000 falcons each year and is the largest facility of its type in the world. It is also one of the city’s most popular and rewarding tourist attractions.

In Middle Eastern cultures, falcons have long been revered creatures; many regard them as the equivalent of family members. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital cares for its patients much like their human counterparts. Falcons are treated in operating rooms and there are specialized departments, such as an intensive care unit and ophthalmology labs. No expense is spared on these highly esteemed birds of prey, and the facilities here rival many human hospitals.

In 2007, the hospital opened its doors to the public and has been a hit with visitors ever since. Join a 2-hour tour to see, and even hold, these beautiful birds up close. The tour begins with a look into falcons as a species, including different types and their various habitats and characteristics.

Visit the examination rooms where birds undergo non-invasive procedures such as feather repair. Then enter the vast aviary to see these magnificent birds in flight as they continue along the road to recovery. For many, the highlight of the tour is the photo opportunity at the end where a falcon sits on your arm in the gorgeous hospital gardens.

The hospital also features a falconry museum displaying a vast array of equipment and memorabilia relating to this ancient pastime.

The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is a 35-minute drive from downtown Abu Dhabi and just a 10-minute drive from the airport. The hospital visiting hours are fairly limited, so plan your visit in advance. Tours are held from Sunday to Thursday from mid-morning to mid-afternoon and need to be booked in advance. Some of the tours offer a lunch option at the end.