Dubai: The 12th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC) got off to a rousing start at Dubai World Trade Centre on Thursday with an enthralling horse show, dressage displays and an exhibition by ace Spanish riders and horses.
The wide-ranging equestrian performances were held alongside the Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF) which offers the widest range of international equine products, services, equipment and technology for horse owners, breeders and equine professionals.
The events are held under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, who ceremoniously cut the ribbon to open the three-day equine extravaganza.
Some of the most magnificent Arabians in the world will compete in the DIAHC to showcases the beauty, agility and magnificence of the breed and for a purse totalling $4 million (Dh15 million).
Also on the agenda is the popular horse auction on Saturday where 100 pureblood Arabian horse breeds will go on sale.
Polo demonstrations by the Al Habtoor Polo Club will also be held on Friday in addition to a polo class which will be held to demonstrate the elegance and specialised skills required to play the sport
Ziad Abdullah Galadari, Chairman, Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, said: “Now in its 11th year, the Dubai International Horse Fair has evolved into an all-encompassing annual event that appeals to the regional and global equine industry, horse enthusiasts and the general public. Demonstrating the sheer beauty, agility and magnificence of purebred Arabian horses, the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship is a prominent and highly-anticipated fixture on the calendar of the regional equine community that is growing from strength to strength.”
Leading international and local companies and brands exhibiting a range of products and services to the burgeoning equine industry in the Middle East include: Ajman Stud, Al Hawajer Stud, Dubai Arabian Stud, Dubai Equine Hospital, Equivance, Jebel Ali Racecourse, Royal Cavalry and Shadwell Stud among others.
