Abu Dhabi: An exceptional Longines League of Nations™ opener

Abu Dhabi (UAE) once again proved itself as a premier destination for world-class Jumping as it hosted the first leg of the Longines League of Nations™ 2025 on 15 February. Held at the state-of-the-art Al Forsan International Sports Resort, the event welcomed top athletes, horses, and equestrian fans from around the world for an unforgettable showcase of elite competition. 

Building on the success of its debut as a Longines League of Nations™ venue in 2024, the Abu Dhabi organising team refined and expanded the experience for participants and spectators alike. Mohammed Al Nakhi, Manager of the Jumping Committee, says that enhanced amenities, an enlarged village with additional entertainment, and spectacular new arena performances elevated the event to new heights. 

With seamless logistics, world-class hospitality, and a strong commitment to sustainability, the organisers delivered a competition that blended sporting excellence with a first-class visitor experience.

World-Class facilities and amenities

The venue is designed to accommodate the highest level of competition, featuring lounges for grooms, owners, and athletes, a dedicated media centre, and ample grandstand seating alongside standing areas for the general public. 

VIP hospitality, a bustling village with retail and pop-ups, and a full schedule of activities further enhance the spectator experience. For the horses, there are both indoor and outdoor warm-up areas, permanent stabling, and state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, officials and athletes benefit from a conveniently located hotel just 100 metres from the venue.

Behind the scenes of a World-Class event

Abu Dhabi’s debut hosting in 2024 was a resounding success, says Al Nakhi, but being progressive they are always looking to refine and elevate the event. As such, 2025 saw the village being expanded with more outlets and activities to enhance the visitor experience, along with additional performances in the main arena to further entertain and engage spectators.

Hosting an event of this calibre requires meticulous planning and a highly experienced team. With over 14 years of experience hosting top-level competitions, including 5*, 4*, and 3* events, the venue staff are well-versed in delivering world-class Jumping events. 

A specialist stable manager was brought in to support the increased number of horses arriving from Europe, housed in a brand-new permanent barn equipped with controlled air conditioning, rubber flooring, and CCTV for optimal safety and comfort. 

Additionally, a dedicated Grooms Lounge provided a comfortable space with refreshments, seating, and live-stream monitors for real-time updates. Fully-catered athlete and owner lounges ensured that all key stakeholders had a premium experience.

Commitment to sustainability

Sustainability remains a cornerstone of the event, with several key initiatives in place for 2025. The catalogue and all event collateral have gone fully digital, significantly reducing paper waste. Additionally, the on-site hotel minimises transport emissions, and organisers have maximised the use of existing infrastructure to keep site build at a minimum.

Hometown glory 

On the nation’s exceptional results, Al Nakhi said: “Seeing the UAE team take 2nd place in the Longines League of Nations was an incredible moment for us. They’re not part of the league, so to have them on the podium, ahead of the other great nations, was very emotional for all involved. We also had Humaid Abdulla Khalifa Al Muhairi take the win in the opening 5* class, and Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi placed 3rd in the 5* GP qualifier.

“It’s also been great to see many riders return to the Emirates, following their debut season in 23/24, as well as welcoming new top riders this season.”

Mohammed Al Nakhi, Manager of the Jumping Committee, Abu Dhabi

 

A message to fans and future plans

On behalf of the entire team, Al Nakhi extended his gratitude to both local and international fans for their continued support, whether attending in person or following the event via live broadcast. Looking ahead, he says that exciting plans are already in motion for 2026. In addition, Abu Dhabi will be adding a third 5* event to the UAE calendar this April at the newly redeveloped Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. 

With lower transport costs, fewer quarantine restrictions, and a record amount of entries from international athletes, the region continues to grow as a premier winter destination for elite Jumping.

The next leg

With Ireland now leading the standings on 100 points, followed by France (90) and the reigning champions Germany (80), the Longines League of Nations™ 2025 series heads to Ocala (USA) for the second leg on 22 March. As the competition intensifies, all eyes will be on the world’s top teams as they continue their quest for supremacy.