The four-day 2024 Fujairah International Arabian Horse Championship opened at the Fujairah Fort Arena under the distinguished patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. The championship is one of the most awaited equestrian events in the UAE calendar, combining elite competition with a rich reflection of Emirati cultural heritage.
Opening Ceremony Draws Senior Dignitaries
The inauguration was presided over by Sheikh Dr Rashid bin Hamad Al Qarqi, Chairman of the Fujairah Culture and Media Authority, alongside Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad bin Seef Al Qarqi and other senior officials and dignitaries.
Notable guests also included Sheikh Mohammed bin Sauc Al Qassim, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department, Sheikh Abdullah bin Majid bin Saqr Al Qassem, Chairman of the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club, HE Dr Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, and Salem Al Zahmi — a roster of attendees that further elevated the championship's prestige.
300+ Purebred Arabian Horses Compete
This year's edition attracted more than 300 of the world's finest purebred Arabian horses, confirming Fujairah's rapid emergence as an international hotspot for horsemanship. The scale and quality of the field reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, whose longstanding support has given the emirate a prominent place on the global equestrian sports map.
The event has received wide regional and international media coverage, cementing its status as a key fixture on the international horse riding calendar.
Champions Honoured in Yearling Fillies Category
Sheikh Dr Rashid bin Hamad Al Sharqi presented prizes to the winners of the Yearling Fillies category. In his remarks, he expressed that "he saw much talent and hard work among the participants and their equines" — praise that captured the standard of competition on display throughout the opening day.
Emirati Heritage Takes Centre Stage
Alongside the competition, a rich programme of cultural activities showcasing Emirati heritage was available for all visitors. These events offered an authentic look into UAE traditions, giving the championship a distinctive identity that blends sporting excellence with cultural roots — an experience that set the 2024 Fujairah International Arabian Horse Championship apart from a purely sporting event.
Horse enthusiasts with a passion for Arabian horses had the opportunity to witness exceptional skills, customs, and professionalism across every category of the four-day programme.
