Saudi Arabia is set to host the final international round of the 32nd UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses on Friday at King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Al Janadriyah, Riyadh.
Final round in Riyadh
The race marks the 17th and concluding stop of this year’s global series, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. His support continues to guide efforts to promote Arabian horse racing and preserve the heritage of purebred Arabian horses worldwide.
The Saudi round has drawn leading Arabian horse studs, reflecting the Cup’s strong reputation among owners and breeders. It also highlights the longstanding ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Strong field expected
The race is open to horses aged four and above, covering 1800 metres on dirt. A total of 24 runners from prominent Saudi studs will compete for a purse of 1.5 million SAR, placing the event among the top Arabian races in the Kingdom.
Notable entries include Najeeb Al Zaman (rating 125), Nadeem Al Molouk (rating 121), and Mutawakkil Al Khalidiyah (rating 118), along with contenders such as Anwar, Foudi Banih and Hasheem.
Past winners of the Saudi leg include Tullab Al Khalidiyah (2018), Sakhr Al Khalidiyah (2019), Badour Athbah (2020), Hamdani Khalid Al Khalidiyah (2021), Taqdeer (2023) and Qaswarah Al Khalidiyah (2024).
Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, said: “We commend the directives and support of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, whose visionary leadership has propelled the President’s Cup to notable achievements across global racecourses. The Saudi round reflects the deep-rooted brotherhood and historical ties between the two nations and their shared commitment to advancing Arab heritage traditions. We also highlight the collective achievements that continue to grow between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.”
He added: “We take great pride in reaching the 17th and final international stop of this year’s series after accomplishing key objectives and executing the strategic plans set at the start of the season. We are equally proud of the strong participation of Saudi owners, breeders, and studs in this prestigious event, which is a clear indicator of the Cup’s value and standing within the global Arabian horse community.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
