Budding and professional photographers have the chance to win a purebred Arabian stallion worth AED 45,000 at the equine industry’s most prominent event 
Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship return from 16 to 18 March at Dubai World Trade Centre

Dubai, UAE, March 9, 2017:  Shutterbugs with a passion for horses are in for a treat as the Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF) launches an Instagram competition in collaboration with the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Awards (HIPA).

The 13th Dubai International Horse Fair, co-located with 14th Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, returns from 16 to 18 March catering to a range of individuals and organisations who are part of the equestrian world from riders, breeders, veterinarians and traders. The event is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance.

Committed to encouraging and supporting art, culture and innovation, HIPA and DIHF will kick off the competition on the first day of the show, which runs for three days. Each day will feature different themes – ‘All Things Culture’, ‘All Things Equestrian’, ‘All things Arabian Horse Championship’ – and participants can upload their photographs by using the hashtags #HIPAxDIHF_Culture, #HIPAxDIHF_Equestrian and #HIPAxDIHF_Championship on Instagram. These competitions will take place from 10am to 8pm, 2pm to 8pm and 11am to 8pm on 16, 17 and 18 March respectively. 

The overall first prize winner takes home Sultan, an Arabian thoroughbred worth AED 45,000 sponsored by Royal Equestrian Club. Runner-up prizes include horse riding classes also courtesy of the Royal Equestrian Club. Entrants may use their smartphone cameras or professional gear if they wish. 

Commenting on the upcoming competition, the Secretary General of HIPA, His Excellency Ali bin Thalith said, “For a long time, Horses have been some of the most sought-after subject matters for photographers to try and capture with their cameras. The art of horse photography is now well and truly a niche on its own here in the United Arab Emirates and the GCC. We are delighted to be partnering up with the Dubai International Horse Fair to provide an opportunity for budding horse photographers to excel with their photography skills. The fair will no doubt be a resounding success and we are happy to have photography incorporated in it this year, adding a visual dimension.”

“Dubai International Horse Fair has always drawn horse enthusiasts from the region and beyond and we encourage anyone who has an interest in these majestic creatures to take part in the Instagram competition held in partnership with the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award. Through a number of show features and entertainment segments, the Horse Fair showcases a stunning variety of horse breeds from around the world – they are sure to delight horse aficionados and budding photographers,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions and Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre. 

Adding to the excitement of the Dubai International Horse Fair is a line-up of new features that will be enjoyed by youngsters, families and recreational riders alike. Al Tamimi Stables will host a ‘Fun Farm’ where children will have the opportunity to touch, feed and learn about various domesticated animals such as Shetland ponies, goats, snakes, rabbits and birds. 

A social clubs area, held in partnership with the Community Development Authority, will offer folklore dances and cultural activities during the show. Equestrian therapy for special needs children and adults will also be demonstrated. 

Set to delight audiences again this year are the Spanish Equestrian performances, which include 30 minutes of thrilling stunts and manoeuvres, as well as the Art Gallery section, specialising in equestrian pieces by renowned artists and sculptors. The Heritage Village is back featuring traditional Bedouin houses, falconry, local dishes, henna tattooing and more.

The Dubai International Horse Fair 2017 will be held in Halls 5 and 6 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Opening hours are 10am - 8pm on 16 March, 2pm – 8pm on 17 March and 11 am – 8 pm on 18 March. Admission is free of charge and open to trade visitors and the general public. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.