The Abu Dhabi Turf Club (ADTC) is gearing up for the 33rd President of the UAE Cup for Arabian Purebred Horses, scheduled for December 6 as part of a 16-race season. 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 (ADEC), this annual event holds a prestigious place in the international Purebred Arabian racing calendar.
The Cup’s history dates back to 1994 when the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan established it to highlight the uniqueness of Arabian Purebreds and preserve their historical significance in the UAE. His vision transformed the event into a platform celebrating equestrian heritage and elevating the global status of Purebred Arabian horses.
This year reinforces that legacy, with ADTC leadership highlighting the importance of patronage. His Excellency Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club, emphasized the impact of this support on the sport’s prominence, noting that leadership’s commitment has been crucial in raising the profile of Arabian Purebred horses globally.
Al Shaiba expressed gratitude for the continued support, stressing the event’s importance. He stated that hosting the President of the UAE Cup yearly reflects the Arabian horse’s cherished place in Emirati culture and strengthens ties to racing heritage. He added that for over thirty years, the Cup has conveyed a proud message of enduring equestrian values, serving as the premier stage for Purebred Arabian racing, attracting top horses, owners, jockeys, and trainers competing for this coveted title.
A key highlight is the Group 1 race over 2200 meters, attracting champion Arabian Purebreds and leading jockeys worldwide. With a total prize of AED 10.8 million, the Cup is the centerpiece of the richest night of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club season. The event will also feature other significant races, including the Group 3 Wathba Sprint or Yass Sprint, the UAE Breeders Cup, and the Abu Dhabi Derby.
The competition is part of the broader 2025–2026 racing season, which includes 16 fixtures starting on October 25. Over AED 20 million in prize money will be distributed throughout the program, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a major international hub for Purebred Arabian racing.
In addition to the racing, visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment that celebrates Emirati culture. Attractions include Emirati craft workshops in a traditional Al-Arish-style setting, an interactive jalsa inspired by motifs from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and artistic installations like “Veil of the Nation” and “Threads of Majesty.”
Families can participate in dedicated activities, such as the Emirati National Dress competition for children aged 6 to 12 and the UAE President Cup Photo Competition for a chance to win AED 10,000.
For culinary enthusiasts, the Michelin-starred Strawfire restaurant will offer a curated dining experience. Traditional musical performances, including the Ayallah folkloric dance and drumming displays, will celebrate the UAE’s artistic heritage. The event will conclude with a large-scale drone show narrating the story of the President of the UAE Cup.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com