Equestrian Excellence Unleashed
This January, the spotlight will shine on Abu Dhabi as the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC) takes center stage to host the
UAE President's Cup International Showjumping. Scheduled from
January 7 to 11, 2026, this event promises to be a historic occasion in the equestrian calendar with a staggering
AED 3.24 million prize pool—making it the highest in the nation’s showjumping history.
The
UAE President’s Cup has a rich tradition of bringing together the crème de la crème of the equestrian world. This year’s championship will welcome elite riders from around the globe, all vying for glory in one of the most esteemed five-star (CSI5
) competitions, governed by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) and the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation.
A Showcase of Elite Talent
With the participation of top-ranked riders such as Daniel Deusser, Emanuele Gaudiano, Henrik Von Heckerman, and Janika Sprunger, the event is set to be a fierce competition. Each rider will have the opportunity to showcase their skills alongside world-class horses.
The competition format is tiered to cater to a range of athletes, featuring:
with total prize money of
€718,000 (about
AED 2.85 million)
- CSI2 offering €74,000 (approximately AED 295,000) - CSIYH1 focused on young horses with €20,000 (around AED 80,000)
This format emphasizes ADEC's commitment to nurturing the sport across all levels, making Abu Dhabi a global beacon for equestrian excellence.
A Venue for the Ages
Hosted at the historic
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, founded in
1976, this event underscores ADEC's pivotal role in shaping the future of equestrian sports in the region. The venue features state-of-the-art facilities spread across
54 acres, including FEI-standard arenas, air-conditioned stables, and lush paddocks that prioritize the welfare of horses.
Beyond the Competition
The UAE President's Cup is not only an arena for competitive showjumping; it’s also a holistic entertainment spectacle. Attendees can indulge in:
- - Premium hospitality experiences
- - Curated food and beverage pop-ups at The Arcades Courtyard, featuring celebrated restaurants like Homebakery and Espresso Lab
- - Family-friendly activities and equestrian experiences
- - Live entertainment culminating in a grand closing ceremony
Moreover, this five-day event is set to cater to various demographics, providing an engaging atmosphere with exclusive merchandise and immersive experiences suitable for all ages.
Both seasoned equestrian enthusiasts and newcomers will find something to appreciate, from the glamour of elite competition to enriching lifestyle activations. This landmark occasion transcends being just a sport; it is a festival celebrating equestrian artistry and excellence, offering guests a chance to engage with the vibrancy of the UAE's equestrian culture.
Tickets and Information
While general admission remains free for the event, those seeking an elevated experience can acquire
Horsemen's Lounge Day Passes and
Table Packages from
Platinumlist. For more information and ticket purchase options, visit
Platinumlist.
As the countdown to this remarkable event begins, anticipation mounts for what promises to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and lifestyle in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Mark your calendars—January 7 to 11, 2026, is a date that will forge memories in the annals of equestrian history.