The sixth edition of the Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF), the Middle East’s leading equine exhibition, drew to a close with reports of successful business deals and potential partnerships for many of the more than 200 exhibitors.
The three day event, which ran from 18 – 20 March 2010 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), attracted exhibitors from more than 30 countries around the world who showcased the latest equipment, products and services to the Middle East’s booming equine industry.
“The Dubai International Horse Fair has gained a large and loyal following of both exhibitors and visitors in just six years and we are delighted that the show delivers tangible benefits for all,” said Abdulla Qassem, Board Member - Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship. “The Middle East equine industry is well developed and offers excellent opportunities for international companies wishing to expand their markets.”
Companies making their debut at this year’s show included the renowned Argentinean fashion brand La Martina, specialists in a wide array of world class polo fashion products and a recent arrival in the Middle East.
Ayman Hanbali, Marketing Manager, La Martina said: “Our objective was to widen our exposure within the leading equine hub that Dubai has become and the Dubai International Horse Fair was the means to do this. We are delighted to have been part of it.”
With peak performance a top priority for horses, whether during track or endurance racing, dressage, show jumping or polo, nutritional feed supplements and healthcare companies enjoyed brisk business during the show.
Michael Reay, Middle East director for Equine Products UK. Ltd, industry leaders and pioneers in the development of nutritional products and supplements, commented on the “good attendance by visitors from around the Gulf, and the high calibre of enquiries received.”
Stabling and flooring innovations attracted both keen interest and healthy sales for a number of exhibitors. Shashi Thomas, owner of Stableforce Trading reported excellent sales and orders for both stables and flooring, while Sabt Industry LLC, manufacturers and distributors of premium equine flooring in the Middle East confirmed strong interest from trade visitors. “The Dubai International Horse Fair is a really nice show; we did very well. All the VIP’s that were promised to attend were present. A lot of sales and orders for stables and flooring were made,” Thomas said.
In addition to the strong business foundation of the Dubai International Horse Fair, the show also offered a range of entertaining activities and knowledge sharing sessions for both trade visitors and horse enthusiasts. Dressage demonstrations by members of the Al Ahli Horse Riding Club and the offer of pony rides drew enthusiastic audiences, while the more serious details of difficult horse behaviour, correct saddle fitting and the latest technology in hoof care were tackled by leading industry professionals.
“This show offers everything – the opportunity to see the latest advances, products and equipment for every facet of equestrian activity and the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Arabian purebreds in competition. I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” said Farah Al Khojai, Emirati equestrienne and visitor to the show.
The US$ 4 million Dubai International Arabian Horse Championships, which was held alongside DIHF, again attracted large crowds, with its excellent showcasing of the beauty, agility and heritage of purebred Arabian horses.
“There is no event in the region that offers the targeted exposure to all sectors of the industry that the Dubai International Horse Fair does, and we look forward to welcoming many new participants to next year’s show,” said Qassem at the close of the show.
Dubai International Horse Fair will return for a seventh edition at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17 – 19 March 2011.
