Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital competing globally for World Responsible Tourism Award

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH) has been nominated as a finalist in the "World Responsible Tourism Award" category of the 2013 World Travel Awards (WTA). The ADFH is the largest public falcon hospital in the world and since it was established by the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi in 1999, it has cared for more than 60,000 falcon patients from the Gulf region, treating and examining more than 8000 falcons each year. In the past six years, it has opened its doors to tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world, making it one of the most sought after tourism destinations in the Emirate. Other nominees in the "World Responsible Tourism Award" category include Tourism New Zealand and Tourism Western Australia. Last May, the ADFH, was internationally recognised with the Middle East's Responsible Tourism Award for its commitment to the UAE's culture and economy, and for its contribution to biodiversity conservation. Public voting helped ADFH succeed in the regional award category now shortlisted as one of the nominees in the World category for the Grand Final Gala to be held later this year in Doha, Qatar. The ADFH provides visitors with a unique opportunity to get close to an important element of UAE culture and heritage - falconry, and since it began offering guided tours, the Hospital has experienced an annual increase of visitors by 20 per cent. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the world of falcons as well as the services offered by the hospital The Hospital also provides a unique venue for events through its Shaheen Conference Centre, fully equipped to cater for conferences, meetings, workshops and other special events like gala dinners and birthday parties. Voting is currently open and votes for Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital can be cast up until November 10, 2013. Once again, the ADFH needs the support of the community to win this global award. – Emirates New Agency, WAM