The Organising Committee of the Doha Equestrian Tour 2026 announced the launch of the inaugural HH The Father Amir’s Prix, the opening event of the season, which gets under way on Friday at the Longines Arena at Al Shaqab and runs until Sunday.
More than 240 male and female riders from 32 countries are taking part in the championship, which boasts a total prize pool exceeding €3.3 million. The event comprises four international rounds, featuring competitions ranging from CSI1* to CSI5**, in addition to classes for junior and young riders.
After first tour concludes this Sunday, the second leg will begin from January 8-10, the third from January 22-24, and the fourth and final round will be held from January 29-31. The second, third and fourth rounds will include qualifying classes for the FEI Group VII Final.
The championship is jointly organised by the Qatar Equestrian Federation, Al Shaqab and the Qatar Olympic Committee. Details of the event were unveiled during a press conference held at Al Shaqab.Deputy Event Director, Mohammed Jaber al-Khayarin said that the HH The Father Amir’s Prix marks the opening series of events of the 2026 Doha Equestrian Tour and holds special significance as it bears the name of
HH The Father Amir, reflecting the enduring legacy of the comprehensive development established under his leadership, including the advancement of equestrian sport.
He added: “Extensive preparations have been undertaken to deliver the event in accordance with the highest organizational and technical standards, reflecting Qatar’s established reputation for hosting major international sporting events. Hosting the competition at Al Shaqab, one of the world’s premier equestrian venues, underlines our commitment to providing an exceptional competitive environment for riders and an outstanding experience for spectators.”
Salemain al-Suwaidi, Sporting Director of the event, while delving into the technical aspects of the event, noted that the tour will be hosting a considerable number of world-class riders, including Belgium’s Abdelkader Said, Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt and Janne Friederike Meyer-Zimmermann, winner of the HH The Amir’s Sword in the previous season, alongside elite riders from various other countries and regions.
Emphasising the event’s commitment to international standards, Alejandro Ancin Berdegue, CEO of In2Strides, said that the course design was developed in collaboration with internationally recognised experts who have worked on some of the world’s leading equestrian events. He added that the courses have been carefully curated to enhance competitiveness, showcase riding skill, and reinforce the event’s international profile.
Colourful Opening Ceremony
Abdullah al-Qashouti, Director of Marketing and Communications for the championship, stated that there will be an official opening ceremony on Friday, featuring artistic performances, a breathtaking drone and light show, along with equestrian-themed activities within the competition venue.
The fan zone will offer entertainment facilities, a selection of cafes and retail outlets, as well as accompanying outdoor activities around the Longines Arena, involving service providers, entrepreneurs and artists throughout the event period, highlighting Qatari hospitality and cultural heritage.
He added: “Tickets are available through the Road to Qatar, with general admission priced at QR50 per day. The platform also offers a range of hospitality options, including VIP Tent Hospitality and Premium Hospitality Packages, providing exclusive access, premium seating, dedicated parking, catering services and daily information. Here is a merged, smooth, and professional version without repetition. We urge all fans to plan their trip to Al Shaqab Arena in advance, and enjoy the entertainment and side activities offered during the event.
Hussain Akbar al-Baker, Executive Director of Commercial and Properties at United Development Company, stated: “UDC’s sponsorship of HH The Father Amir Trophy reflects our strategic commitment to high-impact events that drive tourism, attract international audiences, and celebrate Qatar’s cultural heritage. As a world-class equestrian spectacle, the event strengthens Qatar’s global positioning and aligns with UDC’s role in developing integrated destinations that support long-term value creation while enhancing the nation’s tourism and lifestyle offerings.”
Mohammed Saad al-Kubaisi, CEO of the Education Above All Foundation, said: “The humanitarian partnership between the Education Above All Foundation and Al Shaqab in the H.H. the Father Amir's Prix reflects a strong convergence between sporting heritage and humanitarian action, and embodies a shared vision that recognises equestrian sport as a distinguished national platform for advancing humanitarian and development values.
The championship provides an important opportunity to highlight the messages of education, solidarity, and empowerment through a world-class sporting event that brings together authenticity and excellence, and contributes to supporting efforts to ensure access to quality and inclusive education for children and youth around the world, creating a lasting humanitarian impact.”Hisham Saleh Al Hamad al-Mana, Chairman of Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co, stated that the company remains dedicated to advancing Qatar’s major sporting initiatives and fostering the continued development of equestrian sport across the nation. He added: “We are honoured to support HH The Father Amir’s Prix by providing world-class transportation services that reflect the event’s prestige and commitment to excellence.”