Abu Dhabi Turf Club to host 33rd UAE President Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses

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), Abu Dhabi Turf Club (ADTC) will stage the 33rd running of the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses on December 6, 2025.

The Group 1 contest over 2200 metres is a feature event of the season, renowned for its prestige, record prize fund, and fierce competition among champion horses. It will bring together elite jockeys and the finest Purebred Arabians to compete for a total prize fund of AED 10.8 million, with racing fans around the world set to follow the action. The meeting is recognised as the richest night of the Abu Dhabi Turf Club season. It will feature the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabians alongside other high-profile races, including the Group 3 Wathba Sprint, the UAE Breeders Cup, and the Abu Dhabi Derby.

The late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan inaugurated the first edition of the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses in 1994, affirming the importance of the breed, showcasing its exceptional qualities on the track, and preserving this heritage as an integral part of the nation’s traditions.

Eng. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club, noted that the leadership’s support for Purebred Arabian horses has been instrumental in restoring their stature, enhancing their prominence, and elevating their presence on the international stage. He expressed his gratitude for the patronage and support of Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses.

He said: “At Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club, we are proud to host the President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses every year. This cherished occasion reflects the deep-rooted place of the Arabian horse in the hearts of the Emirati people and strengthens their connection to the heritage of racing.”

He added: “For more than three decades, this prestigious Cup has carried a proud message of our society’s enduring equestrian values. It remains the world’s premier stage for Purebred Arabian racing, bringing together the finest horses, renowned owners, elite jockeys, and top trainers, all competing for the honour of lifting this coveted title.”

Visitors can expect a full line up of entertainment showcasing Emirati heritage and culture. Younger visitors aged between 6-12 years old are encouraged to enter the Emirati National Dress competition whilst photography enthusiasts can enter the UAE President Cup Photo Competition for a chance to win a prize of Dhs10,000 for the winning photograph. Inspired by the floral motifs of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an immersive jalsa will provide guests with an artistic and patriotic visual experience. Celebrating Emirati culture, an Al-Arish traditional Emirati hut structure will host Emirati craft workshops and showcase handicrafts. Guests will be treated to a stunning installation that pays tribute to the burqa, ‘Veil of the Nation’ as well as a tapestry installation, ‘Threads of Majesty’ that beautifully intertwines the nation's heritage with its deep-rooted equestrian traditions.

Racing at Abu Dhabi Turf Club regularly attracts large crowds and delivers strong competition among leading horses, owners, trainers, and jockeys, all vying for the season’s honours.