The fifth annual Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival is well underway at Sealine this month. Photographer Ray Toh sent Doha News some shots of the event, and organizers have also posted some photos on Flickr.

The festival runs through Feb. 2 and is located at Sabkhat Marmy in the Sealine area off Mesaieed.

Due to the rain, the show has been put on hold a few times, but still appears to be attracting diverse crowds. The month-long event includes falcon competitions for adult and younger falcons, and there is also a meet for local saluki dogs.

According to the El-Gannas Society, which is organizing the festival, objectives include preserving Qatari heritage, promoting positive investment of young people’s free time, and establishing a network among falconers in the region.

The festival is free and open to the public. Have you checked it out yet? Thoughts?