01 April 2007

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurates Dubai International Horse Fair 2007

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and Industry, today inaugurated the 3rd Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF), held in Hall 1 and Zabeel Hall of the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

His Highness toured the exhibition with its strongest-ever showing of 213 companies, led by largest exhibitor Al Awani and Gulf Rider, along with Asaafinat, Highline, International Olympic, and Shadwell. Other leading equine industry players participating in DIHF 2007 also include Ajman Stud, Jebel Ali Race Course, Sharjah Equestrian Hospital, and local artist Khulood Al Neaimi.



International participation at DIHF this year is also at its highest, with 76% of exhibitors coming from outside the United Arab Emirates. The exhibition welcomes the inaugural French group participation, with 20 companies led by French Association Equi'trade, and strongly supported by TOTAL – French's largest oil company, and the French Horse Cluster in Normandy. At the UK Pavilion organised by British Equestrian Trade Association, European Technology makes its debut with the latest horse movement measurement equipment, alongside leading apparel and riding equipment supplier John Whitaker.

"As DIHF continues to grow from strength to strength with increasing industry support, we are pleased to offer trade specialists with unique opportunities to get the latest market updates through talks, seminars and demonstrations by experts at the exhibition, starting with the Veterinarian Networking Session today," said Abdulla Qassem, Board Member – Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC). "In addition, the co-located DIAHC starting tomorrow that showcases the beauty of pure-bred Arabian horses, and special features like the Arabian horse auction organised by Al Faisal stud on 3 April is sure to make every visit worthwhile."

For those who just want to have a good time, they can enjoy the simulated horse race arcade games, opt for beginner riding lessons or enjoy the various riding and show jumping displays. Dubai International Horse Fair 2007, the largest exhibition for equestrian equipment, services and care products in the Middle East, is open to visitors between 11:00am and 7:00pm on 1 April and between 2:00pm and 9:00pm on 2, 3 and 4 April.

Dubai International Horse Fair 2007 will be held in Hall 1 and Zabeel Hall at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC). The event will take place from 1 – 4 April 2007 and Opening Hours are 11:00 – 19:00 on 1 April, and 14:00 – 21:00 on 2 – 4 April. Admission to DIHF is free of charge, and open to both trade and general public. All persons under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.