UAE Gears Up for Prestigious 2025–2026 Horse Racing and Equestrian Season Under Patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the upcoming 2025–2026 horse racing and equestrian season is poised to begin, representing one of the UAE’s most prominent sporting events. This season will showcase an impressive calendar, including endurance races at the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba, Arabian horse beauty championships organized by the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS), and top-tier flat racing events at the renowned Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed emphasized that this season builds upon the UAE’s leading legacy in equestrianism. The array of races and championships not only preserve the nation’s deep-rooted equestrian heritage but also reinforce its global stature as a premier hub for endurance, beauty, and flat horse racing. He stated that the season artfully combines authentic traditions with world-class professionalism, fostering competitiveness, strengthening national identity, and connecting new generations to their ancestral heritage. Additionally, Sheikh Mansour highlighted that the UAE considers horse sports a bridge for cultural exchange.
The patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour reflects a strong commitment to supporting horse owners, stables, and encouraging youth participation. It underlines equestrianism as an essential part of national heritage and as a strategic investment fostering opportunities in training, management, and event organization. This commitment cements the UAE’s role as a global leader in equestrian sports.
The Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS) is set to present a vibrant season of beauty championships, underlining the nation’s position in the world of Arabian horse beauty events. Highlights include the EAHS National Arabian Horse Championship (28th–29th October 2025), the 2025 UAE National Arabian Horse Championship (31st October–3rd November), the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) General Assembly (10th–13th November), and the Arabian Breeders Show (15th–16th November). Other marquee events, such as the Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Championship (13th–15th February 2026) and the Ramadan Arabian Horse Championship in both Abu Dhabi and Al Dhafra, will bring the season to a thrilling close.
For endurance enthusiasts, the Emirates International Endurance Village in Al Wathba will host landmark events including the Union Day Cup – CEN 120 km (30th November 2025), the H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak For Private Owners – Ladies Endurance Cup (100 km) (6th December 2025), and further renowned rides leading up to the prestigious UAE President’s Emirates Cup (160 km) (8th February 2026). The venue will also see a succession of events such as the Abu Dhabi Festival Endurance Cups and rides dedicated to private owners and ladies, demonstrating the season’s rich and inclusive sporting tapestry.
At the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, premier speed races are scheduled, most notably the President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses (6th December 2025) and the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup (14th February 2026), drawing in elite competitors and international attention.
The 2025–2026 equestrian season unites the UAE’s signature championships and contests, affirming the nation’s reputation as a global capital for equestrian sports across endurance, beauty, and flat racing disciplines.
Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi, Director-General of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, remarked, “The upcoming 2025–2026 season will feature an ambitious programme rich with events that reinforce the UAE’s standing as a destination for Arabian horse beauty championships.” He attributed the sustained success to the robust support provided by H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the strategic direction of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan.
Musallam Al Amri, Director-General of the Emirates International Endurance Village, stated, “Preparations for the new season have been completed in line with international standards.” He expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, highlighting the advanced infrastructure and professional teams dedicated to organizational excellence.
Ali Al Shaiba, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Racecourse, shared, “Preparations for the new season are complete, ensuring high-quality facilities and world-class organisation.” He noted that the President’s Cup serves as a key motivator for excellence, elevating the racing venue to a premier destination for local and global audiences.
With a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, the 2025–2026 horse racing and equestrian season stands as a testament to the UAE’s enduring equestrian spirit and visionary leadership.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
