Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Dubai International Endurance City will host the 19th Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival, starting on Tuesday and drawing top long-distance horse riders from around the world.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the four-day event honours the ruler’s own achievements as a world endurance champion and his longstanding passion for the sport.
Over the years, the festival has grown into one of the most respected fixtures in international endurance riding, attracting elite competitors and their horses to the challenging desert tracks of Seih Al Salam.
Organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club, this year’s programme opens on Tuesday with the 120-kilometre Endurance Ride for Ladies. The following day brings the 120km ride for private stables, which includes incentives to encourage Emirati breeders.
On Thursday, riders compete in the 120km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares. The festival reaches its climax on Saturday with the prestigious 160km Endurance Cup.
Last year’s edition saw strong performances from local stables. MRM Stables took victories in the main Endurance Cup, with Saif Al Mazrouei on Magic Glenn Torque, as well as the Gamilati Cup for Mares, where Al Mazrouei rode Bullio Ahnu.
Zamzam Al Hosani won the Ladies ride for Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables on Dorzok, while Ali Al Blooshi claimed the Private Stables title for Al Awasif Stables aboard Sandine Raptor.
With its blend of high-level competition and celebration of equestrian tradition, the festival once again underlines the UAE’s deep-rooted commitment to endurance riding and its ability to stage world-class sporting events.
The modern facilities at Dubai International Endurance City offer tough but fair courses for competitors while providing spectators with clear views of the action and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, chairman of the Board of Dubai Equestrian Club, highlighted the event’s rising global reputation, crediting the continued backing of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for helping establish Dubai as a premier destination for endurance riding.
Ahmed Al Kaabi, the club’s general manager, said preparations are complete at the venue to welcome riders from around the world. He noted that the festival represents a key fixture on the international endurance calendar and that DIEC provides a highly competitive environment for athletes, while offering an engaging experience for spectators and guests.
