The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is the world’s first and largest hospital dedicated to the Falcon, the UAE’s national bird. Since opening their doors in 1999 under the direction of a prominent German veterinary surgeon, the unique hospital has seen about 6,000 birds pass through each year, occupying the 200 air-conditioned treatment rooms. The sport of falconry has deep roots in the nation’s culture and the valuable birds are issued passports to get access to high-quality check-ups, treatments and feather substitutions. Guided tours can be booked to get an insight into the history of the sport and can see a free-flight aviary, witness a falcon pedicure and even make friends with the birds perched on your arm.