DIHF and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship kicks off tomorrow

Dubai (WAM): The 10th Dubai International Horse Fair, DIHF, and 11th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, will kick off tomorrow under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance. The event runs until 22nd March, 2014 at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The Dubai International Horse Fair will bring together leading equestrian equipment companies, owners, breeders, stables, clubs, veterinarians, services and care products, professional and leisure riders and horse enthusiasts. The Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, which takes place alongside the Dubai International Horse Fair, is the most prestigious beauty competition for Purebred Arabian horses, from the very young to the elderly statesmen of the Arabian equine world. With prize money of US$4 million (Dh15 million), the international Championship is set to attract strong attendance from equestrian enthusiasts. The event takes place over three days culminating in the Championship classes for the most exquisite horses. Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, said, "As the Dubai International Horse Fair celebrates its 10th anniversary, it once again brings together major players in the region's equine industry who will engage in significant trade. Additionally, the Dubai International Horse Fair and the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship has huge appeal for the general public, families, leisure riders and horse enthusiasts who can experience a fun and activity-filled weekend. This year the Dubai International Horse Fair has recorded an 11 percent increase in exhibitors and will host more than 200 participating companies and brands from countries across the globe, including Australia, Canada, Egypt, Germany, India, Netherlands, New Zealand, Oman, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Portugal, UAE, U.K. and U.S.A.. New country participants include France, Iran, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Tanzania. Leading international and local companies and organisations will showcase a range of products and services to cater to the burgeoning equine industry in the Middle East. Participating companies include Ajman Stud, Al Hawajer Stud, Dubai Arabian Stud, Dubai Equine Hospital, Dubai Racing Channel Studio, Jebel Ali Racecourse and the U.K.'s Shadwell Stud, among others. – Emirates News Agency, WAM