Zallaq: The Bahrain International Exhibition ‘Mara’ee 2025’ continued its activities on the fourth day at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Zallaq, attracting strong public turnout. The exhibition features a diverse range of agricultural and livestock sections, offering visitors a comprehensive experience that highlights Bahrain’s biodiversity and agricultural heritage.
According to Bahrain News Agency, breeders and specialists in fancy pigeons and rare poultry noted that Bahrain has become a regional and international hub for high-quality pigeon breeds, supported by the experience of local breeders and growing interest in the sector.
Issa Abdullah Al Khater, Chairperson of the Bahrain Pigeons Committee under the Bahrain Inherited Traditional Sports Committee (Mawrooth), stated that Bahrain ranks third globally in fancy pigeon breeding, noting that the committee includes around 340 active members. He emphasized the Kingdom’s leading role in promoting the hobby across the Gulf and the Middle East, supported by international reports that recognize the diversity of breeds and the quality of judging standards in Bahrain.
Najeeb Yousif Rafeea, Deputy Chairperson of the committee, highlighted the significant development of the hobby since the 1970s, explaining the distinction between hobbyists and professional breeders who maintain daily care and close monitoring of their stock. He mentioned that prices for rare breeds vary according to supply and demand, and some breeders have turned the hobby into an additional source of income.
Muslim Abdullah Al Bannaa noted that the poultry section attracted wide interest with its display of rare and distinctive breeds from around the world, many of which were showcased to the public for the first time. He mentioned that Bahraini poultry breeds have gained strong regional demand due to their quality.
Breeder Mohammed Al Aradi described this year’s participation as their largest to date, with more than 60 breeds displayed from five continents, including the largest and the smallest rooster in the event, and a world-champion rooster.
Breeder Hassan Yousif pointed out that the exhibition stands out for its rare breeds and broad international participation, particularly from Europe. He noted that the diversity includes specialized laying breeds and other varieties popular among enthusiasts.
Ali Al Shaikh from the Mawrooth Committee expressed satisfaction with the large turnout, noting that the exhibition introduced a daily fancy pigeon competition and, for the first time, allowed visitors to vote for their preferred breeds. He stated these initiatives help raise awareness and increase public interest in the field.
Source: Bahrain News Agency