Dubai welcomes elite endurance riders for prestigious festival

Dubai Media Office

Dubai is gearing up to host the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival 2026 at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Al Salam, starting Tuesday, January 6.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the festival will bring together the world’s top endurance riders, placing Dubai firmly on the global endurance calendar.

The festival, one of the most prestigious events in the sport, honours Sheikh Mohammed, a World Endurance Champion, whose long-standing support has been instrumental in the growth of equestrian sports in the UAE.

Over four days, elite riders and leading stables from around the world will compete in a series of endurance challenges.

The festival kicks off with the 120 km Ladies Ride, followed the next day by the 120 km Private Stables Ride, which includes a special incentive to support Emirati breeders.

On Thursday, January 8, the 120 km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares, will take place, leading up to the festival’s grand finale on Saturday, January 10: the 160 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup.

Organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club, the festival has long been a platform for raising competitive standards and showcasing the UAE’s ability to host world-class equestrian events.

The 2026 edition promises to continue that legacy, highlighting Dubai as a global hub for endurance riding.

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