22nd edition of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship off to perfect start

The 22nd edition of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC) kicked off at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Friday.

The Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship stands as one of the most prestigious beauty competitions in the world, showcasing the unparalleled elegance and grace of elite purebred Arabian horses descended from the finest bloodlines. With a staggering prize pool of $4 million, the championship has drawn 124 horses from eight nations spanning multiple continents.

Alongside the UAE, distinguished competitors hail from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, Brazil, Poland, Switzerland, and Uruguay, each bringing forth their most exquisite equine representatives in pursuit of glory.

Over three days, the championship serves as a mesmerizing celebration of beauty, strength, and heritage, illuminating the timeless allure of the Arabian horse.

Ziad Galadari, Chairman of the Championship’s Organising Committee, remarked that this prestigious event had coincided with the holy month of Ramadan for the second time this year.

Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, he stated, "This year's edition features an exceptional line-up, including four horses that had previously claimed the World Championship title.

“Their presence not only elevated the level of competition but also added an extra layer of excitement, making the event even more thrilling and unforgettable."

More than a mere contest, this extraordinary event pays homage to the centuries of passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication of breeders, trainers, and enthusiasts who have meticulously preserved and elevated the lineage of the Arabian breed.

Established in 2003 under the patronage of the late Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC) has risen to become a beacon of prestige, standing among the world’s most elite Arabian horse shows.

Hosted at the Dubai World Trade Centre Exhibition Centre, this illustrious event draws the most exquisite purebred Arabians, the finest breeders, and affluent investors, all competing for distinction in one of the breed’s most revered arenas.

Sheikh Hamdan’s visionary dream was to craft a championship that would not only celebrate the unparalleled beauty and elegance of the Arabian horse but also elevate it to a place of honor alongside the world’s most distinguished equestrian spectacles.

His unwavering dedication to the sport and the breed revolutionized Arabian horse competitions, setting new global standards of excellence.

The DIAHC is nothing short of a spectacle—each horse entering the ring carries an air of majesty, with heads held high, silken tails flowing like liquid gold, and an undeniable presence that captivates all who bear witness.

Every movement, from a poised stance to a rhythmic trot, is meticulously evaluated by expert judges seeking the ideal fusion of conformation, temperament, and charisma.

At the heart of the UAE, the legacy of equestrian brilliance flourishes, with world-renowned studs shaping the future of the Arabian breed.

Among them, the Dubai Arabian Horse Stud stands as an emblem of excellence, a revered institution that has produced global champions. Equally distinguished is Ajman Stud, a luminary in Arabian horse breeding, founded by Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. This prestigious stud has built an enduring reputation for breeding world-class show horses that mesmerize audiences with their grace, athleticism, and regal presence.

Beyond the UAE, Qatar’s Al Shaqab emerges as a powerhouse of Arabian horse breeding, an institution synonymous with perfection. With a legacy of producing exceptional champions, Al Shaqab has not only set new benchmarks of excellence but has also reinforced the Arabian horse’s status as an enduring symbol of strength, beauty, and nobility on the world stage.