KIB kicks off fourth season of KIB | The Stadium with a grand opening ceremony, marking its third year dedicated to show jumping

Kuwait International Bank (KIB) organized a grand opening ceremony to announce the launch of the fourth season of KIB | The Stadium, the Bank’s flagship sporting event, organized by its strategic partner, Suffix. Dedicated to equestrian sports for the third consecutive year, the championship began on February 5, 6, and 8, and will continue on February 12, 13, and 14, 2026 at Marina Beach. 

KIB’s sponsorship of the championship reflects its commitment to promoting sports culture and supporting equestrian sport in Kuwait and comes as part of the Bank’s comprehensive corporate social responsibility program. KIB continues to launch high impact initiatives that support Kuwait’s position as a regional hub for world class sporting events, through strategic partnerships between the private sector and relevant government entities. These efforts are aligned with the objectives of Kuwait Vision 2035 to support sports tourism.

The opening ceremony was attended by a number of prominent figures, including the Minister of State for Youth and Sports Affairs Dr. Tareq Al-Jalahma, the Governor of Mubarak Al-Kabeer and Acting Governor of Hawally Sheikh Sabah Bader Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, the Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Sport Bashar Abdullah, the President of the Kuwait Olympic Committee Sheikh Fahd Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and the President of the Kuwait Equestrian Federation Masoud Hayat. The event was also attended by representatives of national and sports entities and institutions, a number of partners and sponsors, and members of the media.

Commenting on the event, Marwa Marafie, Manager of Corporate Communications at KIB, said: “We are proud to launch the fourth season of KIB | The Stadium, building on the success of previous editions and reflecting sustained efforts in preparation and organization. Our role as the title sponsor reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility. It also highlights our focus on promoting sports culture and supporting equestrian sport. The championship provides a comprehensive sporting platform that nurtures national talent and supports Kuwait’s position as a leading regional sports destination.”

Marafie added: “Every season of KIB | The Stadium tells a story of passion, dedication, and belief in what sport can achieve. The diversity of programs and riders participating this season reflects how far the event has evolved and how confidently Kuwait is stepping onto the global equestrian stage. Through our partnership with Suffix, we have delivered an exceptional sporting experience that reflects the highest international organizational standards. To us, this championship has become about creating moments that inspire young people, unite families, and ignite national pride. It is about opening doors, nurturing dreams, and proving that Kuwait can stand confidently on the global sporting stage.”

On his part, Ahmed Almajed, COO of Suffix, said: “Equestrian sport holds a special place in our portfolio at Suffix, reflecting our commitment to developing world-class sporting experiences rooted in heritage, discipline, and excellence. As a leading sports events organizer in the GCC, our role goes beyond delivering competitions – this is what we do: we create platforms that elevate sport, enhance audience experiences, and leave lasting impact. Our partnership with KIB is built on a shared vision to continuously raise the standard of KIB | The Stadium, from the quality of competition to every touchpoint of the spectator journey, while supporting the growth of equestrian sport and reinforcing Kuwait’s position as a regional destination for major sporting events.”

This season includes show jumping competitions, with the first weekend, which ran over three days on February 5, 6 and 8, featuring an international 3-star competition (CSI3-W*) qualifying for the World Cup, alongside a CSI1 category. The second weekend, from February 12 to 14, will be dedicated to a 2-star international competition (CSI2*), in addition to a CSI1 category to ensure inclusive participation across all levels.

The championship is also witnessing international participation, with riders from around the world competing alongside leading Kuwaiti champions, including Yara Al-Hunaidi and Ali Al-Kharafi. This strong mix reflects the highly competitive level of the championship and reinforces its growing international presence.

Continuing to expand its scope this year while enhancing the experience for participants and audiences, the championship features a polo showcase for the first time. This addition reflects KIB’s ambition to introduce new sports disciplines each year, following the major success achieved with the introduction of dressage in the previous season.

In addition to the competitions, visitors will enjoy a distinctive experience at The Village, which has been expanded this year and features newly developed zones. The Village includes dedicated spaces for restaurants and cafés, along with family activities and programs, enhancing the visitor experience and positioning the championship as a fully integrated destination throughout its duration. 

It is worth noting that this championship forms part of KIB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its role within the community. The Bank places strong emphasis on supporting and sponsoring a wide range of sporting events and activities, driven by KIB’s focus on empowering young people, developing their talents, and supporting their aspirations. These efforts reflect the Bank’s dedication to building a better future for the community and embody its main slogan, “Bank for Life”.