The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world’s first and largest hospital dedicated to the falcon, the UAE’s national bird. Since opening its doors in 1999, under the direction of a prominent German veterinary surgeon, the unique hospital sees about 6,000 birds passing through its doors each year, occupying 200 air-conditioned treatment rooms. Falcons are a cultural symbol of the UAE capital, thanks in part to their skill and characterful personalities. In fact, falcons and falconry have been connected to Emirati culture for centuries, with this bird of prey playing a vital part in Bedouins’ (nomadic Arab people) lives, with falcons hunting bustards, curlews and other animals for food. Today, the sport of falconry is incredibly popular, with these valuable birds being issued passports and getting access to high-quality check-ups, treatments, and feather substitutions.