Dubai

Passionate horse breeders, traders, professionals and enthusiasts across the region are saddling up for the 12th Dubai International Horse Fair, held alongside the 13th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, this month. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, the Dubai International Horse Fair takes place from 17 – 19 March 2016 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Dubai International Horse Fair and Championship 2

The event draws world-renowned companies and brands, professional riders, horse owners, breeders, stables, industry professionals and horse enthusiasts from a number of equestrian activities and sports. Experts are also on hand to demonstrate the latest equipment in equine care as well as endurance equipment, paddock fencings, riding accessories, racing and equestrian apparel.

This year the event welcomes more than 200 exhibiting companies and brands from more than 20 countries including Bahrain, Oman, Spain, France, Germany, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, South Africa, India, Pakistan, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Egypt, Slovenia, Taiwan, Canada, United Kingdom and United States. New participating countries include Iceland and Kyrgyzstan.

DIHF - Spanish horse perfomance 1

The 12th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship will present the finest Arabian horse bloodlines, which are the oldest purebreds in the world and are mentioned throughout much of recorded history. These magnificent Arabian breeds are valued between USD1 million to USD2 million and will be showcased to discerning equine aficionados. The competition, aimed at purebred Arabian horses to judge their beauty – including their large expressive black eyes, arched neck, short back and high tail carriage – offers prize money of USD4 million (AED15 million).

The popular Horse Auction, organised by Emirates Bloodstock, returns this year where Arabian purebred horses from local studs will be available for viewing, bidding and buying. Held from 2pm on Friday, 18 March, the auction will have over 100 pureblood Arabian horse breeds on sale. Prospective buyers and members of the public can feel the thrill of a live auction with prices and stock to suit every budget.