Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan Receives Prestigious Recognition from British Showjumping at Hickstead
LONDON, 30th July, 2025 – In a significant accolade highlighting the global influence of Middle Eastern leadership in sport, Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, Chairwoman of the Abu Dhabi Ladies Club and Al Ain Ladies Club, and founder and owner of Al Shira’aa Arabians, has been honoured by British Showjumping for her exceptional contribution to the sport of showjumping in the United Kingdom.
This gesture by British Showjumping acknowledges Sheikha Fatima’s outstanding impact and influence within the sport in the U.K., and underscores the enduring legacy of collaboration, development, and excellence between the United Arab Emirates and the international showjumping community.
The award was presented at Hickstead, one of showjumping’s most iconic arenas, during the prestigious CSIO5 King George V Gold Cup, now incorporated within the Al Shira’aa Tour. The event featured UAE riders Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi and Abdullah Al Marri, both competing under the banner of Al Shira’aa.
Lizzie and Edward Bunn, Directors of Hickstead, bestowed the honour, which was received on behalf of Sheikha Fatima by Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi and Khaula Al Nuaimi.
A visionary advocate for equestrian development in both the UAE and on the international scene, Sheikha Fatima has made a tangible impact as a breeder with operational roots in the UK, focusing her efforts on nurturing Emirati riders and empowering them to compete at the highest global levels. Her influence extends to enhancing British breeding, developing her own stallions, championing the AES studbook, and supporting the education and progress of young horses.
Through her support and innovative outlook, Al Shira’aa has become a significant force in international showjumping—sponsoring elite competitions, developing young talent, and forging enduring partnerships throughout the equestrian world.
Quote: “It is an honour to be recognised by British Showjumping. Our mission with Al Shira’aa has always been to elevate the sport and support riders in reaching their highest potential, wherever in the world they may be,” said Sheikha Fatima.
The influence of Al Shira’aa was reflected in competition, with Omar Al Marzooqi, aboard Enjoy De La Mure, securing an impressive second place with a faultless double clear, and Abdulla Al Marri, riding BBS McGreggor, finishing sixth in the King George V Gold Cup class. These results underscored the depth and calibre of Al Shira’aa’s stables.
The Al Shira’aa Tour also marked its return to Hickstead for the Al Shira’aa Young Horse Championships, a crucial event in shaping future equestrian stars. Looking ahead, the tour continues to Turnier der Sieger at Munster Castle, Germany, for the CSI4* event from 21–24 August.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
