Some of the UAE’s best equestrian athletes will look to make history by becoming the first-ever winner of an FEI sanctioned eventing competition in Dubai when the ‘FEI WEC – Category A and National’ one-day competition is held at the Emirates Equestrian Centre (EEC) on Saturday.

The inaugural event is being organised and sponsored by the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation with the intention of providing opportunities to Emirati riders, while getting them the necessary points to qualify for the international stage, with the Olympic Games as the ultimate target.

Eventing has been part of the Olympics’ schedule since the 1912 Stockholm Games and the maiden championship shows the UAE’s ambition in wanting to secure more spots for its athletes at the quadrennial games. A Category A event is considered a top tier preparatory or qualifier competition designed to prepare athletes for the first levels of FEI competitions and is open to equestrian athletes aged 14 and above.Organisers are expecting a healthy turnout with this first-of-its kind event promising to set the standards nationwide for competitive eventing, which consists of a combination of the three major equestrian events of jumping, dressage and cross country, blending athleticism with artistry and precision, whilst celebrating the synergy between horse and rider.

According to the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), eventing “is truly a complete sport that tests both the horse and rider in all ADM Restricted (Internal) (‌مقيد (داخلي‌))‌ aspects of horsemanship, and one of the three Olympic disciplines”. Commenting on the inaugural edition of the competition, Ali Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer and Dubai Racing Club board member, which manages the EEC, said: “This is the start of something really big and we look forward to hosting this event as it gives our equestrian athletes a change to perform on the world stage.

“This is a really a great platform and we encourage our athletes to make the most of this opportunity. Eventing is a sport that we support fully as we hope to nurture the next generation of equine stars that will make the country proud.” Tahra Ahmad, manager at EEC, said: “This is a great way to promote the sport. Equestrian sport is very much an integral part of UAE culture and is steeped in the traditions of our country. We will do our very best to ensure the event is worthy of its status. We would like to wish all those participating in this historic event all the very best.”

As the UAE prepares to celebrate its 53rd National Day, residents can look forward to a long weekend, with a 4-day break for most and an extended 5-day holiday for those in Sharjah.

From November 28 to December 3, Dubai will come alive with Eid Al Etihad festivities, featuring shopping deals, acrobatic performances, musical shows, fireworks, and culinary delights.

Culinary Experiences

Dubai’s restaurants and cafes will offer exclusive tasting menus, limited-time promotions, and events celebrating Emirati flavors with global twists. Emirati Eats will showcase a variety of traditional and fusion dishes at leading eateries across the city.

Music and Concerts

The festivities kick off on November 28 with Jalsat Moments at Coca-Cola Arena, featuring a stellar lineup of Arab artists, including Ayed Yousef, Eida Al Menhali, Nabeel Shuail, and Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi.

On December 2, Dubai Festival City Mall will host a live concert by Aryam and Faisal Al Jasim, while City Walk will showcase a performance by Mohamed Al Shehhi, supported by a 10-member band, from 8 pm to 9 pm.

Fireworks

Spectacular firework displays will light up the city skies at these locations:

–December 1, 8 pm: Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR

–December 2, 8 pm: Hatta Sign

–December 2, 9.10 pm: Dubai Festival City Mall

–December 3, 9 pm: Al Seef

Shopping and Family Activities

From November 29 to December 3, shoppers can enjoy discounts on perfumes, jewelry, fashion, footwear, homeware, and apparel across the city. Traditional bands, family-friendly activities, and performances will create vibrant atmospheres at City Centre Mirdif and Ibn Battuta Mall.

Acrobatic Acts and Performances

On December 2, City Walk will host fabric dancers, acrobats, flag bearers, and traditional bands from 4 pm to 6 pm, culminating in the musical finale by Mohamed Al Shehhi.

With over 200 performers and an array of activities, Dubai is set to honor the UAE’s rich heritage and dynamic spirit with a celebration to remember.

The much-awaited documentary, “To the UAE: A Nation Where Dreams Are Re-engineered”, premiered at an exclusive private screening, graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including H.E. Eng. Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation, Ras Al Khaimah.

Visioned by Madhusmita Nayak, the founder of The Re-engineered Club Podcast, the documentary is a heartfelt tribute to the UAE’s visionary leadership and its transformation into a land of limitless opportunities. With a commitment to capturing life-changing stories, Madhusmita celebrates the UAE as a beacon of ambition, resilience, and inclusivity.

A Celebration of Transformational Stories The film showcases inspiring narratives from remarkable individuals who exemplify the UAE’s spirit of determination and progress, including,  Ghada Alrousi, the first female Emirati pilot at Air Arabia, Abdulla Lutfi, a celebrated Emirati artist with a unique perspective as an individual on the autism spectrum, Gift Solomon, whose journey from food delivery rider to real estate tycoon exemplifies resilience amongst many others. H.E. Eng. Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi underscored the significance of the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and opportunity. Speaking at the event, he commended the documentary for celebrating stories of transformation and resilience.