The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC) and the Abu Dhabi Turf Club (ADTC) are currently presenting the evolution and future trajectory of the region’s equestrian and racing sectors at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2026. The exhibition, held at the ADNEC Centre, runs from August 28 through September 6, 2026, and is open to the public daily between 10:00 and 22:00.
Operating under the theme “Heritage in Motion,” the clubs have established Stand A-125 near the Grandstand entrance. This space features a variety of digital displays, community outreach information, and interactive gaming that highlights the growth of the local equestrian ecosystem. Visitors to the stand can preview the upcoming 2026-27 racing season, which is scheduled to include 16 meetings from October to April. Key highlights include the UAE President Cup on December 12, 2026, and the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup—recognized as one of the world’s most valuable Thoroughbred races—on February 7, 2027. A 90-second promotional film titled “The Home of Racing in Abu Dhabi” is also being screened to showcase the season.
A significant portion of the stand is dedicated to equestrian technology, headlined by an advanced rider simulator. Developed using over 30 years of motion analysis from live horses, the simulator recreates the walk, trot, and canter gaits. It utilizes sensors to track rider balance, leg pressure, and rein contact in real time, providing objective performance data. This technology serves as a cornerstone for ADEC’s Therapeutic Riding Programme, which is run in collaboration with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an and the Mubadala Foundation. The program offers tailored sessions for senior citizens, vulnerable children, and People of Determination to improve coordination, confidence, and communication. Interested participants and potential volunteers can register directly at the exhibition.
The clubs are also demonstrating how data analytics are transforming the sport. A dedicated screen displays a race-day dashboard that breaks down events into granular data, including sectional speeds, GPS tracking, stride length, and precise running order. This analytical approach is further brought to life through an interactive game at the stand. By scanning a QR code, visitors can participate in a simulated race using real-world parameters from past Abu Dhabi Turf Club events, with top performers winning tickets to Thursday night race meetings.
In alignment with sustainability goals, the entire stand experience is paperless. All information regarding show jumping, dressage, and racing calendars is accessible via QR codes, ensuring no printed materials are discarded. Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of ADEC and ADTC, noted that the exhibition provides a vital platform to showcase the ongoing evolution of the sector. He emphasized that the clubs remain dedicated to preserving equestrian heritage while simultaneously advancing innovation, horse welfare, and community-focused initiatives as they shape the future of the sport in Abu Dhabi. The report also notes that with Thursday Race Evenings and two of the season’s flagship fixtures, the calendar features 16 meetings from October to April. The report also notes that or in training as volunteers to support mounted and unmounted sessions, can register their interest on the stand, visitors interested in taking part. The report also notes that showcased through video and explained by the team on site, the stand’s third area turns to equestrian technology. The report also notes that a place to build position, balance and confidence at their own pace before their first mounted session while giving instructors a precise, repeatable record of each rider’s progress, it gives participants a controlled first step. The report also notes that we look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and sharing the experiences and programmes that are shaping the future of equestrian sport in Abu Dhabi.”.
