His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Inaugurates Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship & Fair

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, March 19, 2015: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance today opened the 12th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and the 11th Dubai International Horse Fair, which are taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) until 21 March 2015.

“We thank His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, for their continued patronage and support of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and Dubai International Horse Fair,” said Ziad Abdullah Galadari, Chairman, Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship. 

“Dubai, and the Middle East, is rapidly growing in stature as a global destination for a range of equine events that appeal to industry stalwarts, experts, horse enthusiasts and the general public. These events are also unrivalled platforms to demonstrate the beauty, agility and impressive lineage of thoroughbred Arabian breeds,” continued Galadari.  

Dubai International Horse Fair offers a variety of international equine products, services, equipment and technology for horse owners, breeders and equine professionals in the Middle East. Companies and brands exhibiting a range of products and services to the expanding 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. 

Entertaining and educational equestrian events 

The general public will have the opportunity to witness the fast-paced and thrilling Horse Auction, which returns this year. More than 100 magnificent Arabian thoroughbreds from local studs will be available for viewing, bidding and buying on Saturday, 21 March, at 12pm. 

The popular Art Gallery specialising in equestrian works makes a comeback this year. The gallery gathers established global artists under one roof where they will unveil their horse-inspired sculptures and paintings to art connoisseurs across the region. 

Dressage, pony show jumping, gymkhana and Spanish horse performances will also feature at the show where horse aficionados and the general public can experience riders’ masterful routines. 

Polo demonstrations by the Al Habtoor Polo Club will be held on 19 and 20 March. In addition, a polo class will be held to demonstrate the elegance and specialised skills required to play the sport.

The Dubai International Horse Fair 2015 will be held in Halls 5 and 6 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Opening hours are 11am - 8pm on 19 March, 2pm – 8pm on 20 March and 11am – 8pm on 21 March. Admission is free of charge and open to trade visitors and the general public. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Pre-registration is now open at the show’s official website www.dihf.ae.