global companies look to build middle east presence at dubai international horse fair
Training Simulators, Electronic Racehorses, Cloning for Champions and Horse Walkers among the Innovative Exhibitions at Equestrian Event
Some of the world’s most prestigious equestrian equipment and service companies are set to arrive in Dubai this month for the Dubai International Horse Fair (DIHF), as international interest in the potential of the Arabian equestrian market increases.
The Arab world has a long history of breeding and raising champion horses and its status as an international market is exponentially increasing with the rise of developments like the UAE’s iconic new Meydan Racecourse and the global prominence of the Dubai World Cup meeting.
As a result, some of the world’s best-established European and American specialist suppliers are looking to raise their profile in the Middle East market through their participation in the Dubai International Horse Fair.
Abdulla Qassem, Board Member – Higher Organising Committee of Dubai International Horse Fair and Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship, said: “Many of the European companies exhibiting at this year’s DIHF have developed a leadership position in their home markets and are looking to generate a similarly commanding presence in the Middle East and surrounding markets.”
“This provides the potential for some very interesting competition between world-class companies, as well as ensuring that visitors are provided with the widest possible selection of premium equipment,” he added.
One of the most innovative exhibition stands is set to come from France, with genetics experts CRYOZOOTECH providing material on the use of cloning for breeding championship race horses. The company is the first in the world to successfully complete the cloning of champions.
Among other high-end international exhibitors will be Horse Weigh of the United Kingdom, which will be launching a new mobile weighing concept at this year’s DIHF, while ECB Equine Ltd will be demonstrating a full range of world equine hydrotherapy spas.
They will be joined by Kraft Horse Walkers of Germany. Kraft is particularly known for its unique oval horse walker and will have a working demonstration of their “Oval walker model” on their stand.
A new exhibitor for 2008 is Loddon Ltd. (UK), which has over 40 years’ of experience in the equine industry, and which works with many of the leading names in this field – such as the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse in Dubai, the Singapore Turf Club, the Japanese Racing Association and for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom.
“We see Dubai International Horse Fair as a critically-important first step into the GCC countries, providing an important platform to promote our new stables in Qatar. We are looking to expand our business in the Middle East and see the exhibition as a key entry-point,” said Derek Davies, Export Sales Manager, Loddon Ltd.
Another first-time participant is Racewood Ltd of the UK. The company will be displaying its interactive simulator, which imitates real-life racing conditions at most major racecourses throughout the world. The simulator is the world’s first to address the psychology of racing, providing computer-generated insights into the jockey’s technique and suggestions relating to use of the whip and balance.
Completing the display of equestrian products is a professional Veterinarian Seminar and Exhibitor Presentations.The sessions will be hosted by local and international speakers for professional and interested veterinarians, horse owners, breeders and trainers. Guest speakers are represented from renowned UAE hospitals and laboratories, covering many different aspects from hoof care, injury recovery, therapy massage, nutrition, respiratory, reproduction and dermatology issues.
“The business of horses – whether they are for racing or recreational riding – is increasingly benefiting from the use of advanced technology in partnership with traditional methods. We believe the balance of exhibitors at this year’s DIHF is among the most innovative and interesting we’ve ever assembled,” concluded Qassem.
DIHF is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister of Finance and Industry, from 20 – 22 March at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair runs from 11:00am – 8:00pm on the 20th and 22nd March and from 2:00pm – 8:00pm on Friday, 21st March.
