Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival 2026 Set for Dubai

Dubai will shine in the global equestrian scene as it prepares to host the His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival 2026 at the Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC), starting on January 6.

Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, this festival aims to unite the foremost endurance riders worldwide, further enhancing Dubai's status as a pivotal center for endurance riding.

Recognized as one of the most prestigious events in international endurance sports, the festival honors Sheikh Mohammed, a World Endurance Champion whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the development of equestrian sports in the UAE and beyond.

Reflecting the UAE’s dedication to hosting world-class sporting events and promoting excellence in equestrianism, the festival has drawn elite competitors and leading endurance stables from around the world since it began.

The festival's 19th edition kicks off on Tuesday, January 6, featuring the 120 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Ride for Ladies, proudly sponsored by Azizi Developments. The next day will witness the 120 km Endurance Ride for Private Stables, which aims to support Emirati breeders.

On Thursday, January 8, competitors will take part in the 120 km Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares, under the sponsorship of Al Tayer Motors. The event will wrap up on Saturday, January 10, with the prominent 160 km His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Cup, sponsored by Emirates Airline.

Organized by the Dubai Equestrian Club, this festival continues to elevate competitive standards while highlighting the UAE’s capability in hosting significant international equestrian events. Preparations for the 2026 festival are actively underway at the cutting-edge Dubai International Endurance City.

Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Equestrian Club Board, stated that the festival has gained international prestige with Sheikh Mohammed’s ongoing support, showcasing his aspiration to establish Dubai as a leading endurance riding destination.

Ahmed Rashed Mohammed Al Kaabi, General Manager of the Dubai Equestrian Club, shared that all arrangements have been finalized to welcome international riders. He emphasized the festival's role as a central event on the global endurance calendar, providing a highly competitive atmosphere for athletes while ensuring an enjoyable experience for attendees.

Major sponsors have reiterated their support for the upcoming 2026 event, with Emirates Airline sponsoring the primary Endurance Cup and Azizi Developments continuing its association with the Ladies Ride. Al Tayer Motors and Defender will lend their support for the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares for the 15th year, offering vehicles, including Defenders, as awards for victors.

In the 2025 festival, MRM Stables triumphed in both the Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Cup and the Gamilati Endurance Cup for Mares. The Ladies Cup was secured by Seeh Al Salam Endurance Stables, while Al Awasif Stables clinched victory in the Private Stables competition.

The Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival is a keystone event in the world of endurance riding, reinforcing Dubai's forefront position in hosting elite equestrian events and celebrating the rich equestrian heritage of the UAE.