Abu Dhabi Opens the Year with International Showjumping

UAE President’s Cup International Showjumping brings five days that set the tone for Abu Dhabi’s winter calendar

The year begins in Abu Dhabi with a focus on precision, discipline, and tradition as the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club hosts the UAE President’s Cup International Showjumping from 7 to 11 January 2026. Over five days, the capital welcomes elite riders and horses from around the world for one of the region’s most respected equestrian competitions.

Held at the purpose built grounds of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the event brings together multiple levels of international competition under the governance of the Fédération Equestre Internationale. The programme includes top tier CSI five star classes alongside competitions for developing riders and young horses, reflecting a commitment to both excellence and progression within the sport.

The President’s Cup has become a defining fixture in the regional equestrian calendar. Its scale and organisation attract world ranked riders who return year after year, drawn by the standard of competition and the quality of the facilities. The arenas at ADEC are designed to support both performance and welfare, offering a setting that allows horses and riders to compete at their best.

Beyond the sport itself, the event has grown into a broader winter gathering. Hospitality areas, curated dining, and family friendly spaces allow visitors to experience the competition at different rhythms throughout the day and evening. It is an environment that welcomes both dedicated equestrian audiences and those discovering the sport for the first time.

For Abu Dhabi, hosting the UAE President’s Cup International Showjumping reinforces the city’s role as a centre for international sport grounded in heritage. It is a reminder that equestrian culture here is not staged for occasion, but lived through practice, continuity, and respect for the discipline.

As the season opens, the President’s Cup sets a composed tone. One defined by skill, structure, and a quiet confidence that has become synonymous with Abu Dhabi’s approach to hosting global events.