Doha, Qatar : The 4th edition of the Katara International Arabian Horse Festival (KIAH) kicked off at Katara Corniche, showcasing 674 horses from 10 countries. The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Minister of Sports and Youth, H E Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, and H E Sheikh Thani bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, along with other officials.
Running until February 11, the festival encompasses various events, including the Global Champions Arabians Tour (GCAT) from February 1 to 5, the Katara Arabian Horse Auction on February 4, and the Arabian Peninsula Horse Show from February 8 to 11. With a prize money pool of €17m, this year’s GCAT spans seven destinations across the Middle East and Europe.
Complementing the equestrian focus are artistic events, including a photo exhibition, saddle painting, workshops, live painting, and three art exhibitions. The Katara Corniche is adorned with kiosks offering equestrian products, enhancing the festival’s vibrancy.
Katara General Manager, Prof. Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, emphasized the significance of preserving and promoting the Arabian horse heritage. Qatar's commitment to breeding aligns with this cultural legacy, fostering international championships and revitalizing interest in Arabian horse breeding.
Workshops aim to showcase artistic works depicting the heritage and aesthetics of horses, providing a platform for enthusiasts to develop their talents. Prof. Dr. Al Sulaiti highlighted the cultural significance of these events, uniting equestrian enthusiasts while promoting creativity in various art forms.
As an accompanying activity for the AFC Asian Cup 2023, the Skydiving team from Lekhwiya Forces performed over Katara Beach, adding a spectacular touch to the festival with an aerial spectacle.
