Equine trade fair set for October 28

Dubai: Al Fares 2008, the region's equine trade fair will open its doors on October 28 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Over 250 companies from over 20 countries will showcase a host of products targeted at the equestrian market of the region.

"This year, a significant number of global players in the equine trade have joined us to promote Al Fares as a salient trade platform to do business and capitalise on the booming regional market for equestrian products," said Satish Khanna, General Manager of Al Fajer Information and Services, organisers of the fair.

The show will be open until October 30 from 11am to 7pm. Entry will be free.

Leading players in the equestrian trade market from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the US and the UK are participating in this year's event.

Among international participation, Germany has one of the largest contingents with 21 companies including Activomed, Boekmann, Canina, Waldhausen and Tropmed.

Khanna said that the UAE will have the single largest contingent with 40 companies.

Collectively, these companies represent more than 150 brands from across the world.

Among the local companies are Al Awani General enterprises which caters to the equine market with a host of equestrian products ranging from horse feed, supplements, medical products, fodder and bedding etc. Gulf Rider which is also part of Al Awani Group of Companies, fully owned by a UAE national, Mohammad Al Awani, will represent 20-25 global brands of veterinary and equestrian products.

Escape, a 200 acre private gated equestrian community in Ajman is also a participant at the show.

The 8.2 million square foot development will feature over 500 luxury villas, 150 saddle home duplexes, low rise apartment buildings, an equestrian themed hotel, a Hoofbeat Activities Centre, an equine spa and therapy centre and some of the best equestrian and sports facilities in the UAE including stabling for 200 horses.

Other local companies like Al Hawajer Stud, HBA Horse Equipment, Al Sakeb Vet, Al Atheer, Hamlool, Stableforce, Horseworld, Bonjour, Al Fursan, Gulf Drug Est, Lock Stock GT and NMC. The Al Fares expo will also highlight new products and services for horses and riders.