The President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses will be run on December 6, a highlight of Abu Dhabi Turf Club’s 2025–2026 season, which features 16 fixtures
Visitors to the prestigious event will enjoy a variety of fine dining and entertainment options including Michelin-starred restaurant Strawfire, immersive installations that celebrate Emirati culture and heritage, performances from live musicians and a spectacular closing ceremony drone show
Abu Dhabi, UAE – November 2025: 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.
His Excellency 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 His Highness 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 AED 10,000 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.
For epicureans, a culinary pop-up by Michelin-starred restaurant Strawfire will offer a specially curated menu. The musical lineup is diverse, with contemporary artists playing traditional instruments including the electric oud, handpan, Qanunist and more. Cultural performances include the Ayallah, a traditional Emirati folkloric dance and traditional drummers whose powerful drumming reflects the spirit of unity, pride, and the deep-rooted heritage of the UAE. A spectacular drone show will close off celebrations, set to awe audiences whilst telling the story of the UAE President Cup.
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.
Abu Dhabi Turf Club has confirmed that preparations are complete for the 2025–2026 racing season, which comprises 16 fixtures. The season started on October 25 on the turf track, with prize money of more than AED 20 million on offer across the programme.
The 2025–2026 season promises world-class racing and continues to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for Purebred Arabian competition.
Tickets for the 33rd UAE President Cup are now available. Secure your spot by visiting abudhabiturfclub.platinumlist.net to purchase tickets and explore packages.
About the Abu Dhabi Turf Club:
Established in 1976 through the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Turf Club has transformed from an equine sanctuary into a premier destination for racing excellence.
Following extensive renovations in 2023, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of Presidential Court, President of Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the club now features a championship turf racecourse, grandstand with seating for 10,000 guests, exclusive VIP suites, and a newly renovated hospitality garden.
As a world-class venue for both national and international races, ADTC hosts a vibrant calendar of racing events from October through April, attracting global owners, trainers, jockeys, and spectators.
Seasonal highlights include the prestigious UAE President Cup and other Group 1 races.
