Dubai Endurance Festival Resumes with Al Yamamah Cup

The 18th edition of the Crown Prince of Dubai Endurance Festival has officially resumed at Dubai International Endurance City in Seih Al Salam, beginning with the prestigious Al Yamamah Mares Cup on Monday. The event is organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club in collaboration with the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation.

Widely regarded as one of the most prominent events in the endurance racing calendar, the festival reflects the strong support of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose passion and achievements have significantly elevated the sport’s global profile. The event also embodies the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in advancing equestrian sports both locally and internationally.

The festival commenced with an impressive performance by Emirati rider Sara Mohammed Abdulwahid, who secured first place in the 120 km ladies’ endurance race. The competition continues with the Al Yamamah Endurance Cup for Mares, followed by the Private Stables Endurance Ride on Tuesday. The grand finale, the Crown Prince of Dubai Endurance Cup, sponsored by Emaar Properties, will take place on April 1.

The organising committee has announced a prize pool exceeding AED 5 million. Rewards will be distributed among the top 17 finishers in the Ladies and Al Yamamah races, and up to 30th place in both the Private Stables race and the main event.

Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for their unwavering support, highlighting its vital role in the sport’s continued growth. He noted that this year’s edition aims to set new benchmarks in organisation and global recognition.

Echoing similar sentiments, Ahmed Rashid Al Kaabi described the festival as a key fixture on the international endurance racing calendar. Meanwhile, Dr. Ghanem Al Hajeri emphasised the leadership’s role in strengthening the sport’s development.

Ahmed Al Matrooshi also highlighted the event’s remarkable growth since its launch in 2009, calling it a celebration of the UAE’s rich equestrian heritage.

In the previous edition, Majed Jamal Al Muhairi claimed victory for F3 Stables with a time of 4:10:51 hours, maintaining an average speed of 28.7 km/h. He was followed by teammate Rashid Mohammed Atiq Al Muhairi in second place, while Argentina’s Melina Mendez secured third for M7 Stables.

With strong participation, high stakes, and global attention, the 2026 edition of the festival is set to further cement Dubai’s position as a leading hub for endurance riding.