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The United Arab Emirates equestrian team is set to compete in the second edition of the UAE Show Jumping Cup and the first round of the third edition of the Longines League of Nations 2026, taking place from February 11 to 15 at the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. According to the Emirates News Agency, the show jumping competition will feature 10 international teams comprising elite riders and horses from around the world.
Emirati rider Omar Al Marzouqi confirmed that competing against the world’s best riders holds significant importance for the national team. The event provides a crucial opportunity to assess technical readiness ahead of the World Cup scheduled for later this summer in Aachen, Germany.
Preparation for International Show Jumping Events
Al Marzouqi emphasized that the upcoming show jumping competition serves as an essential testing ground for UAE riders. The high-level competition allows the team to evaluate their performance capabilities and build confidence before representing the nation at the prestigious World Cup in Germany. He noted that the event represents substantial value for Emirati equestrians in demonstrating their technical abilities on an international stage.
The rider highlighted the critical support and sponsorship the national team receives from Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. As President of the Board of Directors of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, President of Abu Dhabi Ladies Club and Al Ain Ladies Club, and owner and founder of Al Shiraa Stables, her backing has played a pivotal role in the achievements realized over recent years, according to Al Marzouqi.
Recent Achievements Demonstrate Growing Competitiveness
The UAE equestrian team’s recent performance demonstrates significant progress in international show jumping. Last week, the team secured a silver medal at the four-star Nations Cup championship in Sharjah, competing against top-tier international and Olympic riders. Additionally, the squad earned silver in last year’s Longines League of Nations competition.
These accomplishments reflect the qualitative development of UAE riders and their growing ability to compete in the strongest championships globally. Al Marzouqi stated that the medals embody the team’s capacity to challenge elite international and Olympic equestrians in high-stakes competitions.
Elite International Participation Expected
The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club will host 10 national teams during the five-day event, bringing together some of the world’s finest horses and riders. The competition format combines the UAE Show Jumping Cup with the opening round of the Longines League of Nations, providing multiple opportunities for teams to accumulate points and demonstrate their prowess.
Meanwhile, the event strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier destination for equestrian sport in the region. The capital’s investment in world-class facilities and international competitions continues to attract top talent and raise the profile of show jumping in the Emirates.
However, specific details about the complete roster of participating nations and individual riders have not been disclosed by event organizers. The competition schedule and format will unfold over the course of the five-day championship through February 15.
The UAE team’s performance in Abu Dhabi will provide important indicators of their readiness for subsequent international competitions throughout the 2025 season. Results from the Longines League of Nations opening round will also establish early standings in the year-long championship series.
