Month: January 2026

Emaar Polo Cup Live Draw Marks Official Start of 7th Edition at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

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Tournament Fixtures for ten teams announced with a spectacular live draw as launch video is projected on Emaar’s iconic Burj Khalifa

The much-anticipated live draw of the Emaar Polo Cup was held in downtown Dubai, officially signalling the start of the tournament’s 7th edition, which will run from February 3rd to February 15th, 2026. The occasion was elevated by a splendid launch show projected on Emaar’s iconic Burj Khalifa, illuminating the landmark with visuals celebrating the tournament, its participating teams, and key partners, setting an inspiring tone for the polo season ahead.

Over the years, the championship has grown into one of the UAE’s most respected polo tournaments, reflecting both the sport’s rising profile and Dubai’s commitment to elite equestrian excellence. Starting with just four teams, the Emaar Polo Cup has evolved significantly, now welcoming ten teams featuring some of the region’s most accomplished players and patrons. The 2026 edition underscores the tournament’s continued success, growth, and prestige within the regional polo calendar.

The tournament launch drew a strong turnout from senior officials, team representatives, partners, and media, reflecting the growing stature of the Emaar Polo Cup within the region’s sporting calendar. Attendees were welcomed to a visually striking presentation, including a dynamic show and launch visuals on Burj Khalifa that set the tone for the upcoming tournament, followed by keynote addresses highlighting the championship’s evolution, competitive strength, and community impact.

This year’s championship offers an impressive prize pool, with the winning team receiving AED 120,000 along with a 212 vehicle courtesy of Legend Motors, while the runner-up will be awarded AED 75,000. An additional Most Valuable Player (MVP) award of AED 5,000 will recognise outstanding individual performance throughout the tournament.

The ten participating teams in the 7th edition of the Emaar Polo Cup include AM Polo, BinDrai Polo, El Basha Polo, Equiti Polo, Noon Polo, Ghrghar Polo, Ankora Polo, Bhansali Polo, Jehangiri Polo, and Ghantoot Polo. The tournament will showcase a high level of competition, with several teams led by prominent figures in the sport, including Rashed Al Abbar of Noon Polo and Sheikha Alia Al Maktoum of AM Polo to strengthen the line-up, bringing together exceptional talent and competitive depth.

The official tournament draw saw match fixtures with teams distributed into three groups. The first group includes Bhansali, Ankora and Equiti, while the second group comprises Bin Drai, Ghantoot, and Jehangiri. The third group features AM Polo alongside Noon, El Basha and Ghrghar. The line-up brings a dynamic blend of established stables, familiar contenders, and emerging teams shaping the UAE polo scene.

The 2026 edition is proudly supported by title sponsor Emaar, alongside key partners Legend Motors with its 212 vehicle brand, and CMC Hospital as the medical partner, and Dubai Sports Council as Emaar Polo Cup’s media partner reinforcing the tournament’s strong commercial and community backing.

Commenting on the announcement, Shokry Abouelsoud, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, said: “The Emaar Polo Cup continues to embody Emaar’s commitment to supporting world-class sporting events that combine excellence, heritage, and community engagement. The growth of the tournament over the years highlights its importance within the region’s polo calendar, and we are proud to support an event that brings together such exceptional teams and talent.”

Khalid Essa Alyassi, Director of Emaar Leisure Club, added: “Reaching the seventh edition of the Emaar Polo Cup is a proud milestone for us. What began as a small tournament with four teams has grown into a highly competitive championship that reflects the rising standard of polo in the UAE with 10 teams. This year’s line-up brings together experienced teams, emerging talent, and strong leadership, promising an exciting and memorable tournament.”

The well-attended event underscored the rising interest in polo, with a packed audience engaging closely with the announcements, speeches, and official draw. Among the attendees were representatives from the UAE Polo Federation, including Saeed Humaid Bin Drai, Vice President, Santiago Torreguitar, Director of Tournaments and board members Sheikh Khalifa bin Hasher Al Maktoum, Mohammed Saeed Al Raqbani, Mehra Falaknaz, and Hind Al Hosani, alongside Omar Saouab, Director of Operations of Emaar Hospitality, senior officials and team representatives.

With fast-paced action, competitive matchups, prestigious prizes, distinguished teams, and an elegant atmosphere, the 7th edition of the Emaar Polo Cup invites polo enthusiasts, families, and visitors to experience the sport at its finest and be part of a celebration that blends athletic excellence, heritage, and UAE’s vibrant polo culture.

Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Hosts Thrilling Grand Finale of the UAE Polo Federation Cup 2025

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UAE Polo Team Crowned Champions of the UAE Polo Federation Cup 2025 under the Guidance of Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed and with the Participation of Sheikha Alia Al Maktoum

The 2025 edition of the UAE Polo Federation Cup, presented by Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, came to a spectacular close with an action-packed finals day that marked a competitive tournament as elite teams delivered world-class polo and an unforgettable sporting showcase.

Finals day opened with four teams taking to the field, setting the tone for an afternoon defined by pace, precision, and competitive spirit. The subsidiary final saw Equiti Polo Team face off against Legacy Polo Team, followed by the highly anticipated main final between UAE Polo Team and Bhansali Polo Team.

The championship match delivered a thrilling contest, with UAE Polo Team emerging victorious after an intense clash, securing the title with a thrilling 7-6 victory, while Bhansali Polo Team finished as runners-up. The match highlighted exceptional horsemanship, tactical brilliance, and athletic excellence, keeping spectators engaged until the final chukka.

In the playoff for third and fourth positions, Equiti Polo Team secured a hard-fought 4.5–4 victory over Legacy Polo Team in an exciting and closely contested match. Equiti claimed the third-place trophy, while Legacy finished fourth.

Beyond the on-field excitement, polo enthusiasts and guests enjoyed a premium event experience, with exclusive VIP viewing areas, refined dining options, and vibrant social gatherings that reflected the elegance and dynamism of the sport.

Commenting on the success of the tournament, Shokry Abouelsoud, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, said: “This year’s UAE Polo Federation Cup raised the bar on every level, from the quality of competition to the overall guest experience. We witnessed outstanding polo, a fantastic atmosphere, and strong community engagement. The finals captured everything we strive to represent as a club: sporting excellence, elegance, and an inclusive lifestyle destination that brings people together through a shared passion for polo.”

Santiago Torreguitar, Director of Tournaments at UAE Polo Federation, added: “The level of play throughout the tournament was exceptional. We saw a powerful mix of experienced players and emerging talent, all competing with remarkable intensity and skill. The quality of the matches reflects how rapidly polo is evolving in the region, and it was a privilege to host such a vibrant and competitive championship.”

The UAE Polo Federation plays a central role in the development and governance of polo across the country, working closely with clubs, teams, and stakeholders to promote the sport at both grassroots and elite levels. Through the organisation of national tournaments such as the UAE Polo Federation Cup, the Federation continues to elevate competitive standards, support talent development, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leading regional hub for polo. 

The final tournament was attended by members of the Board of the UAE Polo Federation, underlining the Federation’s continued support for the growth and governance of polo in the UAE. Board members in attendance included Saeed Humaid Bin Drai, Mohammed Saeed Al Raqbani, Hind Al Hosani, Mahra Falaknaz, and Sheikh Khalifa bin Hasher AlMaktoum. The event was also honoured by the presence of Issa Al Sharif from the Dubai Sports Council, alongside Andrew Chen, Chief Operating Officer of UAEV, the tournament sponsor, as well as other distinguished guests and stakeholders from the polo and sporting community.

The finals day extended well beyond the matches themselves, offering guests a afternoon of entertainment and networking. Families, food lovers, and sports fans came together to enjoy the Ultimate Polo Brunch, featuring an array of curated culinary offerings, alongside family-friendly attractions.

With another successful edition concluded, Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club continues to reinforce its position as a leading destination for elite equestrian sport and lifestyle experiences.