France, Spain officially back Al Fares Dubai

Branded as the `best and biggest' equestrian trade fair in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, the exhibition this year will showcase the latest trends in products and services while simultaneously hosting education programmes and seminars by world renowned experts.

The new recognition from France and Spain has helped boost participation from these countries. UBIFRANCE, a French government organisation responsible for promoting foreign trade in France, has for the first time, included Al Fares in its official programme of overseas exhibitions to be attended. The participation by French companies will be subsidised by UBIFRANCE.

Similarly, ICEX - a Spanish government organisation responsible for promoting foreign trade in Spain - has released funds to the Association of Pure Bred Spanish Horses for its maiden participation in Al Fares Dubai 2004. Purebred Spanish horses will be on display at the December show for the first time.

Highlighting the significance of the December show, Mr. Satish Khanna, General Manager of Al Fajer Information and Services, organisers of Al Fares, said: "The response from equine enthusiasts is overwhelming this year. Al Fares 2004 has grown significantly bigger and better compared to its past editions. The Dubai show is certain to take centrestage in the equine industry when it comes to generating sales, exploring new business opportunities, identifying export markets and meeting industry leaders."

About 18 French and 20 German companies will participate in Al Fares 2004 as compared to 7 and 8 companies respectively in the 2002 edition.

The number of British companies participating in the fair has also gone up by a significant 25 per cent, thanks to the financial support given by the UK Trade and Investment to the British Equestrian Trade Association.

"Al Fares which has seen a steady rise in the number of exhibitors, participating countries and buyers, is set to achieve record-breaking success in its 2004 edition. This will further fortify Dubai's image as the most preferred equine centre in the region," Mr. Khanna said.

The fair will showcase exciting features from the equine world including polo matches, races, carriage rides, fashion shows and films. It will also include a menagerie, an exhibitors' dinner and a demonstration by the Dubai Mounted Police.

The exhibition will showcase the latest trends in equine art, infrastructure, clothing, accessories and will offer an insight into new products and services for breeding, stabling, horse and horse health. It will also put the spotlight on equestrian sports and lifestyle for horse people.

The three-day show will thrill equine enthusiasts from the world over with polo, flat racing, endurance racing, dressage and show jumping. The show will also emphasise on the important subjects of veterinary sciences and breeding.

Al Fares also aims to educate horse lovers by organising seminars and demonstrations during the three-day period. The subjects to be covered at these forums include total horse management, new products and services, nutrition, horse psychology, new products and services, nutrition, horse psychology, injuries, diseases, training and exercising, breeding, breaking, grooming, shoeing, horse examination and visits to equine infrastructure. Besides, a horse auction has also been organised as part of the fair.