Silver Cup to kick off UAE’s high-goal polo season with 16th edition

The Silver Cup returns for its 16th edition, officially launching the UAE’s high-goal polo season on January 10, 2026.

The tournament fixtures were announced during a live draw and press conference held at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, setting the stage for an exciting display of world-class polo and top-tier competition.

Held under the patronage of the Government of Dubai, and supported by the Dubai Sports Council and the UAE Polo Federation, the Silver Cup serves as the opening tournament of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (DPGCS).

The event features a formidable 18-20 goal handicap, reinforcing its status as one of the region’s most prestigious polo competitions.

Recognized by the World Polo Tour (WPT), the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series (DPGCS) ranks among the most prestigious polo competitions worldwide, encompassing the WPT Championship Cup, WPT Cup, and WPT Challenge Cup categories.

Competing under the WPT Cup category, the Silver Cup has been elevated in points this year, with the winning team now receiving 80 points (up from 60), finalists awarded 35 points (previously 30), semi-finalists earning 20 points (up from 15), and all remaining participants receiving 10 points (up from 8). Since its launch in 2009 with 10–12 goal handicap tournaments, the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series has experienced remarkable growth, evolving into a premier polo platform that now hosts 20-goal handicap matches.

This progression has positioned the series alongside some of the world’s most prestigious polo tournaments in Argentina, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Spain.

Celebrated for its exceptional standards of organization, competitive excellence, and international appeal, the DPGCS has consistently attracted elite players, high-profile sponsors, and a global audience. Its steady evolution reflects not only the rising caliber of competition but also its influential role in elevating the profile of polo both regionally and internationally.

Today, the DPGCS stands as a cornerstone of the global polo calendar and a key contributor to the continued growth and prominence of the sport in the Middle East.

Eisa Sharif, Director of Sports Events at Dubai Sports Council, joined the panel this morning and shared the following remarks: “We are pleased to be here today with our partners at the UAE Polo Federation, led by His Excellency Mohammed Al Habtoor, alongside the organizing committee, on an occasion that reflects the advanced level reached by polo tournaments in Dubai in terms of organization, participation, and international presence.”

 He continued by adding; “Dubai Sports Council is pleased to support the Silver Cup Polo Tournament and to be part of its 16th edition, which marks the official opening of the UAE’s high goal polo season, as part of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, hosted at Al Habtoor Polo Club.

“We are also pleased to continue our cooperation with the UAE Polo Federation, with whom we share an institutional partnership that reflects our joint commitment to developing polo and strengthening its position locally and internationally.”

“The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series has become one of the most prominent internationally recognized polo tournaments, following its recognition by the World Polo Tour and the classification of its events within approved WPT categories. This recognition further reinforces Dubai’s presence on the global polo map.

"The tournament’s continued development, both in terms of competitive level through reaching a 20-goal handicap, and in terms of organization and adherence to international standards, confirms the cumulative success achieved since the launch of the series in 2009.

"It also positions Dubai among the world’s leading destinations for hosting major polo tournaments.

Dubai Sports Council places special importance on polo as one of the sports with strategic value within the Dubai Sports Plan 2033, given its role in diversifying the sports landscape, supporting tourism, contributing to economic impact, and reinforcing Dubai’s image as a global hub for international sporting events.

“The council remains committed to providing continuous support for these tournaments by strengthening partnerships with the UAE Polo Federation and the organizing committee, and by ensuring an optimal organizational environment that meets the highest technical and administrative standards, contributing to sustainable success and the development of the sports ecosystem.

 “We highly appreciate the significant efforts made by the UAE Polo Federation, Al Habtoor Polo Club, the organizing committee, and all partners in delivering this tournament in line with best international practices, attracting elite teams and players, and reinforcing Dubai’s position and leadership in the sport of polo.”

Mohammed Al Habtoor, President UAE Polo Federation, Vice Chairman and CEO of Al Habtoor Group, shared his excitement ahead of the tournament, expressing his belief that the participating teams would deliver truly memorable performances.

He noted that such displays reflect not only the passion and dedication of the polo community but also the wider sporting spirit of the UAE, especially as the country prepares to host the World Polo Championship in December 2026.

Speaking about the legacy of the tournaments, Al Habtoor reflected on the journey of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series, celebrating its remarkable growth over the years. He highlighted the Dubai Silver Cup, kicking off on January 10, as a shining example of this progress, a competition that continues to capture strong interest locally, regionally, and internationally thanks to its prestigious ranking.

He added: “The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series is more than just a set of tournaments; it is a platform where talent, dedication, and the spirit of competition come together. It allows players to showcase their skills at the highest level while promoting the UAE as a global hub for polo.”