About the event

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced the second edition of the Diriyah Equestrian Festival 2019 (DEF) which will see the world’s best equestrian athletes descend on the historic Al Diriyah district for two weekends of elite sportsmanship. Taking place on 12-14th December and 19-21st December at the state-of-the-art Al Duhami Farm facility, the event will see Saudi Arabia’s leading equestrian athletes complete alongside international competitors in equestrian and showjumping. With the purpose of promoting the horse sport luxury lifestyle by bringing tradition and history though world-class showjumping.

In what will be a history-making moment of this FEI sanctioned event and in Saudi Arabian history, women will compete alongside their male counterparts as a part of the official team both inside and outside of the ring. To add to this exceptional opportunity for world-class riders, points scores during the festival will account towards qualification as individual riders to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

Distinct, sophisticated and world class, DEF 2019 will propel Saudi Arabia’s riders to the Olympics, propel the youth the elite sportsmanship and make history with Saudi Arabia’s first official mixed-gender equestrian team.

Over the course of the four-day event, the Diriyah Equestrian Festival will welcome 150 riders, 150 grooms, 50 officials, 300 companions and trainers, 250 members of the club and 150 crew members. 1500 visitors are expected to attend and will witness Saudi Arabia’s hospitality with the offering of 15 food trucks catering to international cuisines, 10 shops and game and federation exhibitors.

For those in search of a truly exceptional ringside experience, the DEF VIP area, overlooking the main competition arena, offers expansive views and a range of all-inclusive culinary services throughout the day. Featuring fresh ingredients, VIP menus will highlight the best in Arabian Food complete with an attentive, multilingual team of hostesses and waiters. With premium seating, thoughtful service, and exceptional cuisine, a scenic table along the main arena at the DEF VIP is the perfect place to entertain sponsors, guests, clients, and family.