Located in the heart of Doha, the capital of Qatar lies the Wajif traditional market. This market allows people to travel back in time and experience the unique Arabian heritage in a dreamlike atmosphere.

Here, visitors can find gold and silver jewelry, clothing, spices, food and snacks, and local handicrafts. The maze of Wajif markets is also home to a market for falcons and a hospital that specializes in their treatment and care.

The falcon market boasts a distinctive entrance adorned with a luxurious gold-plated plaque featuring an image of a falcon and the words 'Falcon Market' inscribed in both Arabic and English. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a collection of falcons, each with beady eyes, tethered to their legs, and perched on small pedestals, eagerly awaiting potential buyers.

The falcon market has narrow alleys lined with benches for falcon lovers and tourists to sit and relax. Visitors can enjoy looking at the imposing eagles, take photographs, and even feed them under the supervision of the shopkeeper. In addition to live falcons, there are also statues of falcons, all of which are carved to life-like perfection.

Statistics indicate that approximately 70% of Qataris engage in falconry, with nearly one falcon per young man on average. However, this traditional sport is not limited to men, as many women and underage children also participate. Historically, Bedouins relied on falcons for hunting rabbits and other prey, initially for survival and later as prized pets among the nobility. Today, falconry holds a revered status as a recognized national sport in Qatar.

Some Qataris take their falcons abroad and even get them passports, allowing them to travel by air. They use this opportunity to show off their falcons around the world and demonstrate Qatar's unique falcon culture.

Most Middle Eastern airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways, now have a detailed process for carrying falcons on their planes, allowing these majestic birds to travel the world in the arms of their owners.

Recently, to celebrate the Qatar World Cup, the Paris Mint issued a set of 2022 Qatar World Cup gold and silver commemorative coins. The reverse of the intricately designed coin features the head of a falcon. In addition to the words '2022 Qatar World Cup', the country's initials and an extra face.

The falcon's head takes up almost all of the coin's space, and the falcon's eyes are made up of a football. Local media suggests that this is in keeping with the Qatari people's love of falcons.

The falcon's brave, athletic, swift, and unrelenting nature in capturing its prey also symbolizes the spirit of football players, who compete fiercely against their rivals and strive to win the championship.

The Wajif traditional market and its falcon market are a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing Qatar's unique culture and heritage. The market is a testament to the country's deep-rooted falconry tradition and is a celebration of the majesty and beauty of these magnificent birds.