Dubai is set to host a major horse fair in a bid to throw spotlight on region’s dynamic equestrian industries.

The global interest in the Middle East’s fast-growing equestrian sector – particularly in the grace speed of Arabian horses– has driven the Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF) to become the largest event of its kind in the entire region, the organiser said in a statement.

Expectations are high that the exhibition will draw the highest number of international visitors in its history, when it runs from March 20 – 22 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, alongside the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC).

Over a quarter of visitors came from Europe, Asia and Africa for the previous edition and organiser Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) is confident it can build on this record of global success.

On display will be many leading international manufacturers and distributors of saddles, horse feed, supplements and hay, stable equipment and trailers, medical supplies, and equine massage.

Patronised by UAE Finance and Industry Minister and Dubai Deputy Ruler Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DIHF has quickly developed a strong reputation as an important networking and business development platform for companies and professionals in the industry, DWTC said.

“The Dubai International Horse Fair serves the diverse equestrian community of the whole region and is an increasingly important date for the global industry,” said Abdulla Quassem, board member of Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship.

“For visitors, there will be the opportunity to meet not only with suppliers and manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors, but also with a large number of international stud and stable owners as well as breeders of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses. There is no other event that brings the whole industry together,” he added.

Among others, Ajman Stud, AL Naif Stud (Qatar) Cavalry of Oman, Frison (France), Shadwell (Dubai) and Sharjah Stud will take part in the event.

Over the three days, guests will be able to see Arabian horses in competition at the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship. For 2008, total prize money set by Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum will be a staggering $4 million, making it one of the richest competitions of its kind. Horses will enter from the Americas, Europe, GCC and UAE.

One of the major highlights for visitors is the opportunity to buy horses in the two-day auction for Arabians and thoroughbreds by Al Faisal Stud. Over 200 horses will be auctioned and participants can enter a raffle draw to win a horse.

Another successful feature at DIHF is the veterinarian seminars and exhibitor presentations. These are held to support the industry for animal welfare and wellbeing, by bringing together regional and international experts in horse-care to discuss new developments in treatment and therapy, the organiser said. – TradeArabia News Service