The curtain fell in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, on the 2026 Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Arabian Horse Festival, concluding an exceptional edition that witnessed fierce competition and the crowning of some of the world's finest purebred Arabian horses. This event, named after the late His Royal Highness Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz, is one of the most prestigious and globally recognized Arabian horse beauty championships, classified as a "Title Show," reaffirming the Kingdom's position as a leading center in the equestrian world.
A rich legacy and continuous support
The festival stems from a profound legacy established by the late Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, may God have mercy on him, who was known for his passion and unwavering support for preserving the purebred Arabian horse lineage. This legacy continues today thanks to the guidance and significant support of the Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee, His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, and the direct supervision of the General Supervisor of the Festival, His Royal Highness Prince Fahd bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz. Thanks to the patronage of the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, the festival has transformed into an international platform celebrating beauty, authenticity, and distinguished pedigrees, adhering to the highest internationally recognized technical and organizational standards.
The importance of the event and its global impact
The festival's significance extends far beyond its status as a beauty contest; it represents a prominent cultural and economic event. Locally, it strengthens the connection of younger generations to the equestrian heritage that forms an integral part of Saudi identity. Internationally, it solidifies the Kingdom's position as a leading destination for Arabian horse owners and breeders from around the world, positively impacting tourism and investment in the sector. With the participation of 359 elite horses, the festival proves with each edition that it is a global focal point and a benchmark for quality and beauty in the world of Arabian horses.
The event, held under the auspices of the King Abdulaziz Arabian Horse Center, drew a large audience from all walks of life, who enjoyed the traditional atmosphere enhanced by Saudi folklore performances. The festival reaffirmed that the Arabian horse remains an enduring symbol of beauty, pride, and history, and a cultural and humanitarian message that transcends time and place.
Championship results and crowning of champions
The results of the champions who won gold, silver and bronze in the various categories were as follows:
- Championship for fillies of Saudi origin and breed: Gold (Majdoulah Al-Aaredh), Silver (Dibaj), Bronze (Ishaa’a Adhbah).
- The Saudi Arabian Colts Championship: Gold (Saab MG), Silver (Fateh Sicily), Bronze (Sahm Al-Ajab).
- The Saudi Arabian Mares Championship: Gold (Manarat Adhba), Silver (Hissat Al-Aredh), Bronze (Ishraq Adhba).
- The championship for stallions of Saudi origin and stock: Gold (Aban Adhba), Silver (Khuraysan Adhba), Bronze (Balsam Adhba).
- Yearling Fillies Championship: Gold (Aya Al Arab), Silver (Sultana Al Arabi), Bronze (Lulu Amer Al Zayed).
- Yearling Colts Championship: Gold (Watan Al-Taribeel), Silver (Nader Adhba), Bronze (Wissam Al Zayed).
- Fillies Championship (2-3) years: Gold (Queen of Najd), Silver (AF Mazna), Bronze (FN Baraqa).
- Colts Championship (2-3) years: Gold (Azzam Al Amal), Silver (Nibras NA), Bronze (AR Ghaith).
- Mares Championship: Gold (Amina Granada), Silver (Asmaa Mazna), Bronze (Mawada Rayat Al-Ezz).
- Stallion Championship: Gold (Ammar), Silver (Fuerte), Bronze (Di Meziane).
