Syria welcomes UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses in historic inaugural race
Latakia Racecourse hosts the prestigious 16th leg of the 33rd edition, marking the series' first appearance in Syria as part of a two-day UAE-Syrian Festival
A landmark moment for Arabian horse racing unfolds this Friday as Latakia Racecourse in Syria hosts the 16th leg of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, representing the series’ inaugural appearance in the country during its 33rd edition.
The event forms part of the UAE–Syrian Festival, a two-day celebration of equestrian excellence commencing Friday with fifteen races dedicated to purebred Arabian horses. The opening day features ten races, with a further five scheduled for Saturday, showcasing the finest specimens of this noble breed.
This expansion reflects the UAE leadership’s unwavering commitment to nurturing purebred Arabian horses, advancing the racing industry, and inspiring owners and breeders to acquire and cultivate these magnificent animals. Through such initiatives, the nation continues to preserve the rich heritage of Arabian horses whilst elevating their prestige on the global stage.
The field of competitors represents a distinguished assembly of thoroughbreds, including Sanad Al Aref, Victor Damascus, Mohib Al Aref, Awad Al Khaled, Sultan Al Khatib, Habib Al Kutub, Easar Al Shabak, Ward Al Kour, Baghdad Al Shabak, Rami Al Souriya, Shibl Al Lagha, Al Hajjaj H, Ward Al Mahayni, Fahd Al Kour, Zain Al Waad and Douma Al Ezz.
Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the UAE President’s Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses, described Syria’s inclusion as a significant milestone. The expansion demonstrates the continued strategic vision of H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan in developing the Arabian horse racing sector and supporting the international breeding community.
Al Dhaheri emphasised that welcoming new racecourses to the series creates expanded opportunities for stakeholders whilst reinforcing the industry’s long-term growth and sustainability. The inaugural Syrian leg is anticipated to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations and enhance the Cup’s standing throughout the Arab region and beyond.
Source: WAM