Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival 2026 Set for Dubai

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Dubai is poised to become the focal point of the international equestrian scene as it prepares to host the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival 2026 at Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC) beginning January 6.

Under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, this significant event will unite the crème de la crème of endurance riders, solidifying Dubai's stature as a premier destination for endurance riding.

Recognized as one of the most esteemed events in international endurance circles, the festival honors Sheikh Mohammed, a World Endurance Champion whose dedication has significantly influenced the growth of equestrian sports both in the UAE and internationally.

This event exemplifies the UAE's commitment to hosting world-class athletic competitions and promoting equestrian excellence. Since its launch, it has drawn elite competitors and prominent endurance stables from around the world.

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

On January 8, contestants will take part in the 120 km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares, which is sponsored by Al Tayer Motors. The final event, the flagship 160 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, sponsored by Emirates Airline, will take place on January 10.

Managed by the Dubai Equestrian Club, the festival continues to elevate competitive standards while showcasing the UAE's remarkable capabilities in organizing major international equestrian events. Preparations for the 2026 edition are in full swing at the state-of-the-art Dubai International Endurance City.

Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Dubai Equestrian Club, noted that the festival’s growing international prominence is a testament to Sheikh Mohammed’s unwavering support and vision to establish Dubai as a top destination for endurance riding.

Ahmed Rashed Mohammed Al Kaabi, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, confirmed that all preparations have been finalized to welcome participants from various countries. He emphasized that the festival remains a vital event on the global endurance calendar, providing a competitive arena for athletes and a captivating experience for spectators.

Prominent sponsors have reaffirmed their commitment to the 2026 edition. Emirates Airline will be the main sponsor of the Endurance Cup, while Azizi Developments maintains its support for the Ladies Ride. Al Tayer Motors and Defender continue their long-standing sponsorship of the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares, offering prize vehicles, including Defenders, for the winners.

In the 2025 edition, MRM Stables triumphed in both the Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Cup and the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares. The Ladies Cup was awarded to Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables, while Al Awasif Stables claimed the Private Stables competition.

The Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival stands as a hallmark event in the global endurance riding arena, reinforcing Dubai's leadership in hosting elite equestrian competitions and celebrating the UAE’s extensive equestrian legacy.