In a rapidly evolving world of technology and globalization, it might seem unusual to draw connections between the ancient art of falconry and the modern realm of fintech. Yet for me, Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari, these two worlds are intimately connected. Falconry has been more than a personal passion — it’s a discipline that has shaped the way I think, teach, and innovate.

Every weekend in Al Ain, I join fellow falconers in the quiet of the desert, away from the noise of academia and boardrooms. There, with a falcon resting calmly on my glove, I’m reminded of the importance of patience, timing, and trust — qualities that are just as essential in today’s fast-paced financial landscape as they are in traditional Arabian hunting practices.

Falconry demands absolute focus. A single gesture can determine success or failure. The falcon must be trained with care, consistency, and deep respect. Similarly, when working with fintech startups or advising on cross-border trade strategies, I approach each decision with precision. Timing is crucial — whether releasing a falcon or launching a financial solution. You must sense the right moment, anticipate the environment, and act with confidence.

This mindset has served me well in my role as Professor of International Trade Finance and Director of the Center for Trade and Financial Innovation (CTFI) at Khalifa University. In both research and mentorship, I emphasize that innovation should never be impulsive. True breakthroughs come from understanding systems — whether natural or economic — and respecting the complexity within them.

Falconry also teaches trust. A falcon doesn’t return because it is forced to; it returns because of a bond. I apply the same principle when mentoring entrepreneurs. My role is not to dictate, but to guide — building a relationship grounded in respect and open dialogue. Startups thrive when they feel empowered, not micromanaged.

This balance of heritage and innovation is vital in the UAE’s vision for economic diversification. As the nation leads in sectors like logistics, digital finance, and sustainability, we must remember that the speed of change must be matched by the strength of our cultural and ethical foundations. Falconry reminds us of that balance — the harmony between tradition and forward-thinking.

Through initiatives like Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, I’ve had the privilege of working with visionary entrepreneurs developing cutting-edge solutions in cross-border payments, trade finance, and blockchain technology. I encourage them to think beyond speed and disruption. I urge them to think sustainably, ethically, and strategically, just as a falconer would.

In a world that often celebrates disruption for its own sake, I, Dr. Abbas Sharif Alaskari, find inspiration in ancient practices that reward discipline and foresight. Falconry is not just a sport — it’s a philosophy. And as we shape the future of trade and finance, it’s a philosophy worth embracing.