Fashion Shows with Bedazzled Bridles, Dressage Displays and the Latest in Equine Care Products Provide a look into an Industry with Strong Traditional Roots in the Region;

Arabian Horse Championship will feature the Best Purebred Arabian Horses Competing for top Prize of US $4 million

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF), the region's leading equine exhibition which runs from 18 – 20 March 2010, and features more than 200 exhibitors and over 30 countries, has put together an exciting and action packed programme of fashion shows, farrier demonstrations, dressage displays, drill runs and horse care specialists.
 
Running concurrently with the Arabian Horse Championships, the 6th edition of this prestigious fair, which is held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), also offers the latest innovations in equestrian products and services and brings together leading international breeders, manufactures and veterinarians to provide horse owners, stables and riders with three days of education and entertainment.

This year's show will cater to horse enthusiasts of all ages and experience-levels. Highlights include a mix of classic favourites and new show-stoppers that will thrill the whole family. Arts and crafts sessions, the horse and camel museum, workshops on animal behavioural problems and cutting edge farrier techniques, ensure that a day spent at The Dubai International Horse Fair is fun-filled and action packed.

Abdulla Qassem, Board Member - Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship said: “The Dubai International Horse Fair celebrates the tradition and passion the Arab community has with horses, which dates back many years to our Bedouin ancestry. We've tailored this year's schedule to include a mix of activities, performances and displays that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Whether its horse rides, fashion shows or seminars on horse whispering techniques, the Dubai International Horse Fair offers something for people of all ages and provides an opportunity for the community to broaden their understanding of an important element to the region's culture.”

Fresh on the scene at this year's event is the horse fashion shows featuring the latest trends, products and equipment available from retailers in the region. The shows will present beautifully tailored and fitted tack on impeccably groomed horses in a range of colours and styles. Dyed leather and Swarovski embedded bridles are just a few examples of what to expect, bringing the meaning of ‘clothes horse' to a whole new level.

The Ahli Riding Club horse rides are the perfect opportunity for budding new riders to explore their curiosity. With miniature ponies, experienced school horses and the supervision of qualified instructors, The Dubai International Horse Fair provides the ideal platform for newcomers to climb onto their first saddle.

Visitors will also be wowed by the dressage displays carried out by the young students (9 - 14 years old) from Ahli Riding club. One of the most difficult sports, dressage, often referred to as ‘horse ballet', requires the rider and horse to work in partnership through a choreographed series of movements that test the horses strength and agility. The students from Ahli Riding Club will showcase their talents by performing different formations that make up the basics of this highly disciplined sport.

'We're thrilled to have our students perform in the dressage drill ride during the opening of this  year's Dubai International Horse Fair, as it offers them the opportunity to further perfect their skills, gain confidence and master the techniques required to advance to the next level of competition,” said Rashid Suhail Al Darbi, General Manager Ahli Riding Club. “I encourage all of my students to invite their friends and families down to the exhibition so that they can embrace everything the equestrian industry has to offer and understand its importance to the region.”

Established in 2005, DIHF has quickly become a significant international event recognised for its high-calibre programme. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance, the exhibition provides a wealth of information and services and is the perfect platform to launch new products, meet new potential buyers and showcase products and services to audiences from across the region.

“This year's event is packed with both entertainment and education for both the trade and community. With more than 200 companies showcasing the latest in equestrian products and a spectacular programme of entertainment and education, we hope to provide an opportunity for the wider community to explore everything about this exciting industry,” concluded Qassem.

The Dubai International Horse Fair 2010 will be held from 18 - 20 March 2010 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Halls 5 & 6. Opening hours are 11am – 8pm on 18 and 20 March 2010 and from 2pm – 8pm on 19 March 2010. Admission is free of charge and open to trade and consumers. Persons under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
For more information, please visit www.dihf.ae