UAE Moroccan Festival debuts in Casablanca : A new milestone in international horse racing

The first edition of the UAE Moroccan Festival was recently celebrated at the Casa-Anfa racetrack, initiated by the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Horses (SOREC) in partnership with the UAE President Cup Committee. For the organizers, it represents a "new benchmark event in the international gallop calendar," combining "sporting excellence, strategic cooperation, and international openness."

This inaugural edition saw the presence of over 3,000 people who attended eight races featuring horses from more than five countries. "The high level of the events, the atmosphere in the stands, and the commitment of the participants highlighted the success of this first edition, praised by industry professionals," the organizers stated in a press release.

"The highlight of the day, the President of the UAE Cup, an international race listed as Group 3 with a prize of 250,000 euros, lived up to its promises. Over the 2,100 meters of track, it was the horse Buraak, owned and trained by Mohamed Daissaoui and ridden by Abderrahim Faddoul, who won with mastery in a powerful finish," according to the same source.

The Abu Dhabi Cup was another key moment of this edition, as an international Listed race over 1,900 meters, witnessing the clear victory of the mare Almohiba Fal, born and raised in Morocco, owned by FAL Stud, ridden by Khalid Ibba, and trained by Fatmi Ech-Charty.

The other races were marked by performances and tactical duels, offering a high-level spectacle through a balanced program between Arabian and English thoroughbreds. SOREC's General Director, Omar Skalli, praised the success of this first edition, which "confirms Morocco's ability to host major equestrian events."

The official added that the success of this event was proof of "the shared interest with our Emirati partners to build a stronger, more open, and forward-looking industry together."

In this regard, SOREC plans to establish the UAE Moroccan Festival as a long-term event, in order to "enhance Morocco's appeal to major international stables, elevate the level of competitions, and make Casablanca an essential stage for Arabian gallop racing."