Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi International Arabian Horse Championship is set to commence this Friday evening at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, featuring around 369 horses. Out of these, 255 horses are from within the UAE while 114 hail from abroad, representing 11 countries. The event underscores Abu Dhabi’s prominent role in preserving Arabian horse heritage and elevating its global status.
According to Emirates News Agency, details of the championship were unveiled at a press conference held at the Etihad Arena. Leading the announcement were Mohammed Ahmed Al Harbi, Director-General of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS), and Eidha Al Menhali, Head of Activities and Events at EAHS, along with several officials and media representatives.
Al Harbi extended greetings from His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of the EAHS, as well as Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Board of the EAHS. The championship, scheduled for 13th to 15th February 2026, is one of only seven ‘Title’ shows worldwide, known for its rigorous qualification criteria.
Al Harbi highlighted that the championship attracts elite Arabian horse bloodlines, with 230 owners participating, of which 161 are from the UAE and 69 from other countries. The event boasts a prize fund of £4 million, enhancing its competitive edge and reinforcing its status as a leading Arabian horse championship.
The championship will employ the ‘Rabdan’ judging system, developed by the EAHS in collaboration with the UAE Cybersecurity Council, ensuring transparency and integrity in judging. This aligns with the UAE’s commitment to innovative smart solutions across sectors.
Concluding the press conference, Al Harbi emphasized the unique organizational and tourism appeal of hosting the championship at Yas Island, a top entertainment destination in the region. This offers a blend of Arabian horse heritage and modern organization at a world-class venue.
Lulwa Al Mansoori noted significant interest from owners worldwide, with registration opening on January 12 via the Society’s website. Within the first hour, 116 horses were registered, eventually reaching 369 entries.
Al Mansoori assured that the judging system maintains high integrity, with judges selected automatically by the system. Eida Al Menhali confirmed the completion of all organizational and technical preparations, including upgraded quarantine facilities and warm-up areas for the horses.
Al Menhali added that the championship’s visual identity draws inspiration from the traditional Arabian saddle, reflecting the historical and aesthetic significance of Arabian horsemanship.
The event’s first day will commence at 10:00 with the Yearling Fillies Class, followed by classes for Two-Year-Old Fillies, Three-Year-Old Fillies, and Mares Class, all divided into categories A and B.
