Fujairah Unveils Latest Equestrian Championships

Post by : Mara Rahim

With the esteemed support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, the latest chapter of the Fujairah Equestrian Championships is set to unfold from November 20 to 29. This prestigious event embodies the emirate's dedication to rejuvenating traditional equestrian sports, enhancing its status both regionally and internationally. It also aligns with Fujairah's ambition to meld heritage with innovation in sports that resonate deeply with cultural roots.

The championships will occur at the historic Fujairah Fort arena and are orchestrated by the Supreme Committee for Fujairah Equestrian Championships. This initiative is part of the broader mission of the emirate to promote equestrian engagement and support horse owners and riders from the UAE and beyond. The vision is to position Fujairah as a cornerstone for heritage sports that celebrate culture, competition, and community involvement.

This year's schedule kicks off with the Fujairah International Show Jumping Championship from November 20 to 23, followed by the Fujairah Dressage Championship on November 24. The event series culminates with the Fujairah International Arabian Horse Championship from November 27 to 29. Together, these competitions promise a month of excitement, showcasing the prowess of riders and the elegance of Arabian horses.

A notable addition this year is the introduction of the “Silver Dagger Award,” which honors stables owned by UAE nationals, recognizing their contributions to the preservation and advancement of Arabian horses. The “Golden Sword Award” will continue as the championship’s premier accolade, available to all competitors. These honors underline Fujairah’s steadfast commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering excellence in heritage sports.

His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee, articulated that this edition brings to fruition the vision of His Highness the Crown Prince. He highlighted that equestrian sports are integral to Arab identity and cultural heritage. Dr. Al Zeyoudi remarked on the championship's standing as one of the region's most anticipated equestrian competitions, blending competitive excellence with cultural significance and appreciation for purebred Arabian horses.

Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that these championships transcend mere sporting events; they symbolize a rich cultural initiative. They play a crucial role in instilling national pride, advocating equestrianism as a vital cultural and developmental pursuit. He commended the organizing committee's efforts in ensuring continuous growth for each edition, reflecting Fujairah’s ascending international repute and adherence to high professional standards.

Vice Chairman Ali Musbah Al Kaabi also lauded the event, asserting it fortifies Fujairah’s exceptional standing in global equestrian sports. He pointed out that this year's edition distinguishes itself with meticulous organization, robust participation, and substantial prizes, creating an enriching experience for both riders and audiences. He affirmed that these championships reinforce Fujairah’s position as a pivotal venue for horse-related events while contributing to the emirate’s cultural and sporting ambitions.

The Fujairah International Arabian Horse Championship is being executed under the auspices of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society. The dressage and show jumping activities fall under the supervision of the Emirates Equestrian and Racing Federation and the International Equestrian Federation. This multi-tiered collaboration emphasizes Fujairah’s commitment to upholding the highest international standards in sports management and event execution.

This iteration of the Fujairah Equestrian Championships underscores His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi's determination to establish Fujairah as a preeminent cultural and sporting center. It honors authentic Emirati heritage while integrating contemporary organizational approaches that meet global benchmarks. Through this initiative, Fujairah reaffirms its dedication to mutually promoting traditional values and innovation, reflecting the emirate's expanding footprint in the realm of equestrian sports and cultural stewardship.