H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum opens DIAHC 2013

Taking place from 21-23 March, the show showcases the full range of international equine products, for horse owners, breeders, equine professionals and leisure riders in the Middle East.

"We thank H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his on-going support and patronage of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship & Fair, which is now the ultimate arena for all segments of the equestrian industry," said Ziad Abdullah Galadari, Chairman, Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship.

"There is no doubt that this event provides an ideal sharing and networking platform for corporate and individuals across the wider industry and the community," he added.

The three-day event comprises of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, a showcase and competition of the heritage, beauty and agility of the world's finest Arabian horses, with prize money of $4m (Dhs15m), and the Dubai International Horse Fair, the region's leading equine exhibition with more than 200 exhibitors and brands.

The exhibition has seen a 20% increase in exhibitor numbers, with many first time companies, including the veterinary company Nova Pharma from UAE, John Kohnke Products from Australia, AlphaOmega from Colombia and Mervue Laboratories Ireland among many others.

Four new countries, including Australia, Colombia, France and Pakistan, join countries as far afield as Canada, Germany, India, Oman, Portugal, the United Kingdom, the United States and many others exhibiting in the Horse Fair this year.

The event will showcase a wide range of products services, equipment and technology from leading international and local companies and organisations including Al Awani, Dubai Equine Hospital, German Horse Industry Consulting, Hamraz Traders from India, Horse Pride Equestrian Equipment from Bahrain, Jebel Ali Race Course, Royal Cavalry of Oman, and Shadwell Estate, to name a few.

Completing the display of equestrian products and services are speed pattern racing and timed games for riders on horses, the new indoor Jumping Festival and Gymkhana which is organised by Dubai Pony Club and held in the new Jumping and Performance Arena, which hosts the Arabian themed Carousel and Liberty performances.

The show will also see the return of the already established Horse Auction for Arabian and thoroughbreds from local studs. This landmark event, which will be held on the second day of the show in the Jumping and Performance Arena, will be the biggest ever with more than 75 horses on sale, and is anticipated to attract hundreds of buyers from across the region.

The distinctive equestrian art exhibition is featured again at the show this year with painters and sculptors including Mohammad Rafat, the Portuguese sculptor Carolyn Morton, Nasser Bin Ibrahim Al-Dibeahy, Remi Bertoche and Ali Al Mimar. On display, visitors will be able to see and buy horse paintings, bronze and gold plated sculptures of celebrated people, horses and falcons, and other equestrian-inspired artworks.

Visitors can also experience local culture at the returning DTCM's traditional Heritage Village, which will showcase the UAE's authentic cuisine, clothing, handicraft, calligraphy and more.

The Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship and Fair 2013 is held in Halls 5 - 8 at DTWC. The show opens from 11am - 8pm on 21 and 23 March (Thu and Sat) and from 2pm - 8pm on 22 March (Fri). Admission is free of charge and open to trade and consumers. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.