Abu Dhabi (Aletihad)
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the Abu Dhabi Turf Club will stage the 33rd running of the UAE President Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses on December 6.
The Group 1 contest over 2,200 metres is a feature event of the season, renowned for its prestige, record prize fund, and fierce competition among champion horses. It will bring together elite jockeys and the finest Purebred Arabians to compete for a total prize fund of Dh10.8 million.
The race meeting is recognised as the richest night of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club season. It will also feature other high-profile races, including the Group 3 Wathba Sprint, the UAE Breeders Cup, and the Abu Dhabi Derby. The total prize money throughout the season at the ADTC is more than Dh20 million.
The Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, inaugurated the first staging of the race in 1994, affirming the importance of the breed, showcasing its exceptional qualities on the track, and preserving this heritage as an integral part of the nation’s traditions.
Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and ADTC, noted that the leadership’s support for Purebred Arabian horses has been instrumental in restoring their stature, enhancing their prominence, and elevating their presence on the international stage. He expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed as the patron and chairman at both club entities.
He said the “cherished occasion reflects the deep-rooted place of the Arabian horse in the hearts of the Emirati people and strengthens their connection to the heritage of racing.
“For more than three decades, this prestigious Cup has carried a proud message of our society’s enduring equestrian values. It remains the world’s premier stage for Purebred Arabian racing, bringing together the finest horses, renowned owners, elite jockeys, and top trainers, all competing for the honour of lifting this coveted title.”
Visitors can expect a full line-up of entertainment showcasing Emirati heritage and culture. Younger visitors aged 6-12 years old are encouraged to enter the Emirati National Dress competition whilst photography enthusiasts can enter the UAE President Cup photo competition for a chance to win a prize of Dh10,000 for the winning photograph.
Inspired by the floral motifs of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an immersive jalsa will provide guests with an artistic and patriotic visual experience. Celebrating local culture, a traditional hut structure (Al Arish) will house craft workshops and showcase Emirati-style handicrafts.
Guests will be treated to a stunning installation that pays tribute to the burqa, “Veil of the Nation” as well as a tapestry installation, “Threads of Majesty”, that beautifully intertwines the nation’s heritage with its deep-rooted equestrian traditions.
For epicureans, a culinary pop-up by Michelin-starred restaurant Strawfire will offer a specially curated menu. The musical line-up is diverse, with contemporary artists playing traditional instruments including the electric oud, handpan, Qanunist and more.
Racing at the ADTC regularly attracts large crowds and delivers strong competition among leading horses, owners, trainers and jockeys, all vying for the season’s honours.
Cultural performances include the Ayallah, a traditional Emirati folkloric dance and traditional drummers whose powerful drumming reflects the spirit of unity, pride, and the deep-rooted heritage of the UAE. A spectacular drone show will cap the celebrations, set to awe audiences whilst telling the story of the UAE President’s Cup.