Eighty-one Arabian horses compete in Shanghai leg of Emirates Global Cup
The fifth instalment of the prestigious 2026 Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup unfolds at Shanghai's premier equestrian venue, showcasing the UAE's commitment to advancing purebred Arabian horse breeding on the world stage.
The fifth leg of the 2026 Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup commenced at the Shanghai Juss International Equestrian Centre in Shanghai, China, with eighty-one horses representing approximately thirty-five owners competing across the two-day competition.
The event forms part of the EAHGC’s distinguished international series, organised by the UAE to champion the purebred Arabian horse sector and reinforce its profound significance as an authentic expression of Emirati heritage and national identity. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee, the third edition of the Cup features multiple legs spanning different continents.
The Shanghai gathering holds particular resonance, coinciding with the 2026 Shanghai International Horse Culture Carnival—a comprehensive celebration that merges sporting competitions with public engagement. Alongside the EAHGC, the carnival encompasses four major international equestrian disciplines: show jumping, dressage, young riders’ competitions and polo, complemented by the Shanghai International Horse Exhibition and an educational showcase dedicated to horse culture.
The competition programme encompasses specialised classes for colts and fillies of varying age groups, alongside categories for mares and stallions, culminating in championship finals across all participating divisions. The event has attracted considerable interest from owners, breeders and Arabian horse enthusiasts throughout China and beyond.
This initiative exemplifies the UAE’s vision for preserving purebred Arabian horses and safeguarding their global standing. By establishing an internationally specialised platform, the Cup expands opportunities for owners and breeders worldwide whilst advancing the quality of services and care standards for these magnificent animals. The competition promotes excellence in breeding practices and reinforces the sector’s sustainability and prominence internationally.
The Shanghai leg underscores the global expansion trajectory of the EAHGC, strengthening Arabian horses’ presence within new markets and communities whilst broadening participation in Arabian horse beauty competitions. The hosting arrangement reflects substantial cooperation between the Emirates Arabian Horse Society and the Chinese Arabian Horse Association, underpinned by a memorandum of understanding designed to enhance expertise exchange and advance care services for purebred Arabian horses in accordance with international best practices.
Source: WAM