Dubai: Some of the best polo players in the world will be in action when Dubai hosts the Dubai Gold Cup for the first time at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club from March 5-12.
A total of six polo teams from Chile, England, Saudi Arabia and the UAE will compete in the week-long tournament.
The event is recognised as one of the most important and prestigious polo tournaments to grace the region and will be held under the patronage and presence of Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
"We are extremely honoured and delighted to have the patronage of Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad," said Mohammad Al Habtoor, founder of the Gold Cup.
"We would like to offer our sincere thanks and respect at his important association with the Dubai Polo Gold Cup. The tournament will be a world class event that Dubai can be proud of year after year.
Al Habtoor commented on this being and first time, adding Dubai is hosting the event, adding: "It is a life long dream to stage such an event in Dubai and a privilege that such a prestigious and important tournament will finally be held in my country.
"We are looking forward to welcoming the teams and players to the Threadneedle Dubai Gold Cup and also visitors from overseas to watch the games and enjoy our hospitality."
Santiago Torreguitar, Polo Manager of the Gold Cup, said: "The Gold Cup is taking place for the first time in Dubai and reflects the commitment of the polo community in the United Arab Emirates to bring the tournament to the Middle East.
Torreguitar added: "Thanks to the vision and support of the Gold Cup Chairman and founder Mr. Mohammad Al Habtoor we are confident this world class sporting tournament will add to the high profile international sporting events Dubai is famous for."
The Gold Cup is to be held under the rules and regulations of the Hurlingham Polo Association, the governing body of the sport in the UK and Ireland.
