Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chief of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the Abu Dhabi Turf Club will host the 33rd running of the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses. The prestigious event is set to take place on December 6, 2025, and promises to be a grand celebration of equestrian excellence and Emirati heritage.
The President of the UAE Cup has become one of the most important horse racing events in the country. It brings together elite Purebred Arabian horses, top jockeys, renowned owners, and skilled trainers. This year, the competition will feature a total prize fund of AED 10.8 million. The 2200-metre Group 1 contest at the center of the event is considered the highlight of the racing season. Alongside it, other exciting races, including the Group 3 Wathba Sprint, the UAE Breeders Cup, and the Abu Dhabi Derby, will offer thrilling action for spectators.
A Rich Heritage of Arabian Horse Racing
The President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses was inaugurated in 1994 by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The race was established to celebrate the Arabian horse’s exceptional qualities while preserving this breed as an essential part of the UAE’s cultural heritage. Over the years, it has become a symbol of national pride and equestrian excellence.
Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club, highlighted the critical role of leadership support in elevating the Arabian horse’s global presence. He stated that the patronage of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan has strengthened the prominence of Purebred Arabians in international racing. Eng. Al Shaiba added that hosting the President of the UAE Cup each year reflects the deep connection of the Emirati people to their equestrian heritage.
International Prestige and Elite Competition
For more than three decades, the President of the UAE Cup has been recognized as the premier stage for Purebred Arabian racing. Each year, the competition attracts the finest horses, celebrated owners, and elite jockeys from around the world. The event is not only about high stakes but also about showcasing the exceptional training, agility, and stamina of these champion horses.
Spectators attending the Cup can expect high-octane competition, where strategy, precision, and speed combine to create unforgettable moments. This event offers a platform for the world’s top horses to shine while demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to maintaining international standards in equestrian sport.
A Celebration of Emirati Culture
The UAE President Cup is not just a horse racing event; it is a celebration of Emirati culture. Visitors will enjoy a wide range of activities highlighting the nation’s heritage. Young participants aged 6 to 12 are encouraged to take part in the Emirati National Dress competition, celebrating traditional clothing. Photography enthusiasts can join the UAE President Cup Photo Competition, offering a chance to win a prize of Dhs10,000 for the best capture of the event.
Inspired by the floral motifs of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an immersive jalsa will provide an artistic and patriotic experience for visitors. Guests will also explore an Al-Arish traditional Emirati hut, which will host craft workshops and showcase local handicrafts. Art installations, such as ‘Veil of the Nation’ and ‘Threads of Majesty,’ will pay tribute to the nation’s heritage, combining artistic expression with the rich equestrian traditions of the UAE.
The Thrill of Racing at Abu Dhabi Turf Club
Abu Dhabi Turf Club has long been a destination for horse racing enthusiasts. Its events consistently attract large crowds, offering a stage for the finest horses, owners, trainers, and jockeys to compete for seasonal honors. The President of the UAE Cup, in particular, is known for delivering intense competition and dramatic finishes that keep spectators engaged from start to finish.
The Club’s commitment to hosting world-class events ensures that every aspect of the race—from the preparation of the horses to the execution of the event schedule—meets the highest standards. Racing at Abu Dhabi Turf Club is a mix of excitement, tradition, and celebration, making it an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages.
Promoting Equestrian Values and Heritage
The President of the UAE Cup has long carried a message of enduring equestrian values. It represents the UAE’s dedication to preserving its equestrian traditions while embracing modernity in racing standards. The event continues to promote the Arabian horse as a symbol of national pride and cultural identity, inspiring future generations to appreciate and respect these majestic animals.
Eng. Ali Al Shaiba emphasized that the Cup reflects the country’s values, connecting people to their heritage and highlighting the significance of the Arabian horse in Emirati society. He noted that the event plays a vital role in strengthening the global presence of the UAE in the field of equestrian sports.
Looking Forward to the 33rd Edition
As the 33rd edition approaches, excitement is building among horse racing fans, cultural enthusiasts, and international visitors. This year promises a perfect blend of thrilling races, cultural showcases, and artistic displays that celebrate the UAE’s history and achievements.
The President of the UAE Cup remains a prestigious event that draws attention worldwide. Attendees can expect top-class competition, engaging cultural experiences, and an opportunity to witness history in the making. The Abu Dhabi Turf Club ensures that the event delivers a truly world-class experience, combining sporting excellence with cultural pride.
A Must-Attend Event for All
The UAE President Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses offers a unique experience for everyone. Whether visitors are horse racing enthusiasts or simply interested in Emirati culture, the event provides an unforgettable day of entertainment, education, and celebration. From the high-speed action on the track to the immersive cultural installations, the President of the UAE Cup showcases the UAE’s dedication to excellence in sport, arts, and heritage.
With the continuous support of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the organizational expertise of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the 33rd edition of the President Cup promises to set new benchmarks. It highlights the UAE’s vision for maintaining world-class equestrian events while promoting national traditions and values.
Attending the UAE President Cup is an opportunity to witness champion Purebred Arabian horses in action, experience the richness of Emirati culture, and enjoy a celebration that reflects the nation’s enduring equestrian legacy. This event is more than a race; it is a living tribute to the traditions, values, and pride of the United Arab Emirates.
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