Post by : Badri Ariffin

Kicking off on January 6, Dubai will take the spotlight in the global equestrian scene as it welcomes the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival 2026 at Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC), Seih Al Salam.

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this festival is set to unite the world’s elite endurance riders, reinforcing Dubai's status as a premier destination for endurance riding.

Recognized as one of the most significant events in international endurance sports, the festival honors Sheikh Mohammed, a World Endurance Champion whose ongoing support has been vital for the advancement of equestrianism in the UAE and worldwide.

Reflecting the UAE's dedication to hosting world-class sporting events, the festival has consistently drawn elite riders and top endurance stables globally since its inception.

The festival's 19th edition will commence on Tuesday, January 6, featuring the 120 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Ride for Ladies, sponsored by Azizi Developments. The subsequent day will spotlight the 120 km Endurance Ride for Private Stables, promoting Emirati breeders.

On Thursday, January 8, contenders will compete in the 120 km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares, sponsored by Al Tayer Motors. The festival will culminate on Saturday, January 10, with the prestigious 160 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, supported by Emirates Airline.

Organized by Dubai Equestrian Club, the festival continuously elevates competitive standards while showcasing the UAE's advanced capabilities in hosting significant international equestrian events. Preparations for the 2026 edition are in full swing at the cutting-edge Dubai International Endurance City.

Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Dubai Equestrian Club, remarked on the festival's enhanced global reputation, attributing it to Sheikh Mohammed's unwavering support, aligning with his vision of making Dubai a leading endurance riding venue.

Ahmed Rashed Mohammed Al Kaabi, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, confirmed that all preparations are in place to host riders from around the world, emphasizing that the festival continues to be a central fixture in the international endurance calendar, offering a competitive environment for athletes and a vibrant experience for spectators.

Major sponsors have reaffirmed their commitment to the 2026 edition. Emirates Airline will sponsor the main Endurance Cup, while Azizi Developments maintains its long-standing partnership with the Ladies Ride. Al Tayer Motors and Defender will support the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares for the 15th consecutive year, providing vehicles, including Defenders, as prizes.

During the previous year's competition, MRM Stables triumphed in both the Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Cup and the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares. Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables clinched the Ladies Cup, while Al Awasif Stables secured success in the Private Stables event.

The Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival is a pivotal event in the global endurance riding landscape, underscoring Dubai's stature in hosting elite equestrian competitions while celebrating the UAE's rich equestrian heritage.

#Dubai