The enchanting desert of AlUla is once again the stage for one of the world's most prestigious equestrian events, with the launch of the seventh edition of the AlUla Endurance Championship . This highly regarded two-day event brings together the world's finest riders and horses in a fierce competition that serves as a true test of endurance, stamina, and the harmony between rider and horse. It also represents a vital rehearsal before AlUla hosts the FEI World Endurance Championship in 2026.
The event is organized in collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla and the Saudi Equestrian Federation, and is accredited by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), ensuring its adherence to the highest international standards of organization, safety, and competitive fairness. This edition is particularly significant as it serves as a crucial preparatory step towards hosting the World Championship, offering international riders and teams the opportunity to explore AlUla's unique terrain and adapt to its landscape, which blends breathtaking beauty with technical challenges.
The rich equestrian heritage in the heart of Al-Ula
AlUla's hosting of this championship was no coincidence. The region boasts a deep-rooted equestrian heritage spanning thousands of years. Rock carvings scattered throughout the province, depicting horses, hunting scenes, and equestrian activities, stand as living testament to the close relationship that has bound humans and horses to this land. Today, as part of its Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia seeks to revive this rich heritage and establish AlUla as a leading global destination for equestrian sports, blending the authenticity of the past with the ambition of the future.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Locally, the championship contributes to enhancing AlUla's standing as a global tourist and sporting destination, stimulating economic activity, and engaging the local community in international events. Internationally, the successful organization of this event reinforces the international sporting community's confidence in the Kingdom's ability to host major championships and positions it among the leading nations in endurance riding. The race also offers participants from over 70 countries the opportunity to compete on one of the world's most scenic routes, passing through exceptional natural and historical landmarks such as Elephant Rock and Hegra , the first Saudi site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Competition details and key participants
The competition is spread over two days of challenging and exciting events. The first day features an international 120km race (CEI2*), followed on the second day by the main 160km race (CEI3*), which is considered the ultimate test of endurance for both horses and riders. Nearly 300 riders are participating in the championship, including world and European champions such as France's Melody Theulissa, the Netherlands' Marek Visser, and Spain's Jaume Ponte Das, alongside rising Saudi talents like Muhannad Al-Salmi, promising an unprecedented level of competition.
In his remarks, Rami Al-Muallim, Vice President of Destination Management and Marketing at the Royal Commission for AlUla, affirmed that “AlUla presents a unique model as a global destination, where elite sports blend seamlessly with nature, culture, and history in a harmonious whole.” He added, “Events like the Equestrian Championship draw their identity from this exceptional environment, crafting authentic experiences that leave an unforgettable impression.”.
As the 2026 World Championship approaches, all eyes are on Al-Ula, which offers not only a racecourse but also a complete cultural and sporting experience that embodies the depth of equestrian heritage in the Arabian Peninsula.
