Dubai: Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, formally inaugurated the 14th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and the 13th Dubai International Horse Fair, both being held simultaneously at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The opening day’s competition at the DIAHC featured the foal and female qualifying rounds for Saturday’s Championship classes. Friday’s qualifying round are for male horses.
Close to 300 show horses from 20 counties will compete for Dh15 million ($4 million) in prize money.
The competition is exclusive to Purebred Arabian horses who will be judged on their beauty, agility and heritage. Horses competing are registered with the World Arabian Horse Organisation (WAHO).
Meanwhile, over 100 Purebred Arabian thoroughbreds will be auctioned off while Al Tamimi Stables will host a “Fun Farm” where children will have the opportunity to touch, feed and learn about various domesticated animals such as Shetland ponies.
Ziad Abdullah Galadari, Chairman, Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, said, “We thank His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum [Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai] and Shaikh Hamdan for their ongoing patronage and support to the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and Dubai International Horse Fair.
“The Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and Fair are highly anticipated fixtures on the equestrian calendar, where the most-prized thoroughbreds are introduced to a global and regional audience.
“With some of the best horses in the world currently in Dubai we expect some very keen competition of the three days.”
Global and regional equine industry players such as stable and horse owners, breeders, professionals and veterinarians, service and care providers, specialist product providers, leisure riders and horse enthusiasts will be present at the event.
Cultural activities will be held during the show while the equestrian therapy for children with special needs and adults will also be demonstrated.
The audience will also get to see the Spanish Equestrian performances, which include 30 minutes of thrilling stunts and manoeuvres, as well as the Art Gallery section, specialising in equestrian pieces by renowned artists and sculptors.
The Heritage Village will feature traditional Bedouin houses, falconry, local dishes, henna tattooing and more.
