In a country where traditions have long shaped women’s roles, Mona Al-Khurais stands as a powerful symbol of change. She is not just a sportsperson—she is a licensed international shooting coach, referee, and competitor. Mona is also the first female falconer to participate in the prestigious King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival.
Her journey is more than a personal success story. It reflects the broader transformation happening across Saudi Arabia, where women are stepping into new spaces and showing the world what they’re capable of.
Her Passion Began with Family Traditions
Mona’s love for shooting began at an early age. Growing up, she joined her father on hunting trips across the desert. These experiences didn’t just build fond memories—they sparked a deep passion for shooting. What started as a childhood interest turned into a serious pursuit.
As she got older, Mona decided to train professionally. She didn’t just stop at shooting practice—she became a certified international shooting trainer, referee, and coach. Today, she trains both men and women, sharing her skills and encouraging others to follow their passions.
Facing Challenges with Confidence
Mona’s rise in the world of shooting wasn’t always smooth. Like many women breaking into male-dominated fields, she faced criticism and doubt. What surprised her most was that much of the criticism came from women, not men.
But she didn’t let that stop her. Mona remained focused on her goals. She believed in herself and knew that change doesn’t come without resistance. Her strength and determination have not only helped her succeed but also inspired others.
Today, Mona continues to teach shooting at a professional level, especially at training centers in Riyadh. Her students—both women and men—look up to her for her skill, knowledge, and unwavering belief in female empowerment.
Olympic Dreams and Global Recognition
Mona is not content with just national success. She has her eyes set on international stages, including the Olympics. Her goal is to represent Saudi Arabia in global shooting events and bring pride to her country.
With her experience, discipline, and drive, she’s already on the path to making that dream come true. She trains regularly, participates in competitions, and keeps improving her skills. She’s also helping others reach their goals by sharing her experience and encouraging more women to join shooting sports.
A Historic Moment in Falconry
Shooting is not the only sport where Mona has made history. She became the first woman falconer to compete in the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, a prestigious event that celebrates the ancient and noble tradition of falconry in Saudi Arabia.
For centuries, falconry has been a male-dominated sport, closely tied to Bedouin heritage and desert life. By participating in the festival, Mona broke one of the oldest traditions in the country—simply by showing that women, too, can master this graceful art.
Her participation marked a powerful turning point. It sent a message to young girls and women across the kingdom: there are no limits to what you can do if you’re passionate and willing to work hard.
Mona recently achieved first-place rankings in the falcon racing competitions at the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival and is aiming to compete again this year with the goal of claiming top positions once more. In addition to her success in falconry, she is an all-around athlete with a deep passion for heritage sports—those deeply rooted in her Arab identity. Her ambition goes beyond competition; she aims to connect future generations to their roots and elevate traditional sports and cultural heritage to the global stage in a way that truly honors and reflects their value.
Why Falconry Matters
Falconry is more than a hobby in Saudi Arabia. It is a symbol of strength, heritage, and the deep connection between humans and nature. Mona’s decision to step into this space was bold, and it was deeply meaningful.
By becoming the first female falconer at a national event, Mona honored her culture while also helping to evolve it. She’s not just keeping traditions alive—she’s expanding them, making room for women in every part of Saudi life.
Role Model for the Next Generation
Mona’s journey is inspiring to many young women in Saudi Arabia and beyond. She proves that you can be strong, feminine, and successful in any field—even those that seem out of reach.
She often speaks about the importance of not giving up, especially when facing criticism. According to Mona, believing in yourself is the first step toward achieving greatness. Her message is simple but powerful: You don’t have to fit into someone else’s idea of what a woman should be. You can create your own path.
By continuing to break barriers, Mona is not only building her own legacy—she’s opening doors for countless others.
The Bigger Picture: A Changing Saudi Arabia
Mona’s story is part of a bigger movement happening in Saudi Arabia. In recent years, the country has seen major reforms aimed at giving women more opportunities. From driving cars to holding leadership positions, Saudi women are making bold strides in many sectors.
Sports, especially, has become a new frontier for female empowerment. Women are joining gyms, competing in tournaments, and becoming coaches and officials. Mona Al-Khurais is at the forefront of this change, showing what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
She represents the best of modern Saudi Arabia—bold, skilled, ambitious, and proud of her roots.
What’s Next for Mona?
As she continues her journey, Mona remains focused on growth. Whether she’s training shooters, competing in falconry events, or speaking to the media, she carries herself with grace and strength. She’s working hard to qualify for more international competitions and help develop a stronger female presence in shooting sports and falconry.
At the same time, she continues to train others, spreading her knowledge and love for these sports. Her dream is not just to compete—but to lead, inspire, and build a legacy that lasts.
Final Thoughts
Mona Al-Khurais is more than just an athlete—she is a pioneer. Her story proves that with courage, hard work, and belief in oneself, anything is possible. From the firing range to falconry festivals, she is showing the world what Saudi women can achieve.
Her path hasn’t been easy, but it has been meaningful. And it is far from over. As she continues to push boundaries, Mona is not only making history—she’s helping shape the future of sports, culture, and empowerment in Saudi Arabia.
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