Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, the inaugural Al Ain Equestrian Festival will take place from 27 February to 8 March 2026 at Al Mubazzarah Al Khadra Park in Al Ain Region. The event marks the first time for this festival, emphasizing equestrian sports as a core element of the UAE’s heritage and national identity. It will attract local and international horse owners, showcasing the growing popularity of such gatherings.
The Al Ain Equestrian Festival is designed to highlight the cultural significance of equestrian activities in the UAE. Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event will run for 10 days, providing a platform for both competitive and cultural engagements related to horse sports.
Key features include the Al Shira’aa International Arabian Horse Show, which will feature 266 purebred Arabian horses, with 27 coming from outside the UAE. This segment underscores the international appeal of Arabian horse breeding and exhibition. Additionally, the Al Shira’aa Show Jumping Championship, classified as CSI2, will involve 400 horses owned by 250 individuals, offering high-level jumping competitions.
Beyond the competitions, the festival will host a dedicated village area with heritage-themed platforms, outlets for equestrian equipment, and food trucks. This setup aims to create an immersive experience that blends tradition with modern equestrian interests. The inclusion of participants from abroad reflects the event’s aim to foster global connections in the equestrian community.
As the first edition of the festival, it positions Al Ain as a hub for equestrian events, building on the region’s longstanding association with horse culture. Organizers expect it to draw a diverse audience, reinforcing equestrian sports’ role in preserving UAE identity.
