Top-class competitors from Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and the UAE are expected to take part.

The three day-showpiece (January 7 – 9), which culminates with the Dubai Grand Prix - a qualifier for the FEI World Cup - is organised by the Dubai Equestrian Club and sponsored by Gulf News, Longines and Al Mubdee Scaffolding LLC.

Dubai Equestrian Club General Manager Mr Ali Moosa Al Khamiri said: “The 2010 Dubai Show Jumping Championships has attracted some of the region’s best riders and horses, and promises to be an exceptional event.

“The atmosphere and competition will be electric, especially as there is a chance to qualify for the FEI World Cup Final in Geneva, April 2010. There is also plenty of entertainment for all the family which should make for a hugely enjoyable event for enthusiasts and novices alike.

“We are indebted to our long-standing sponsors Gulf News and Longines, and are delighted to welcome Al Mubdee Scaffolding LLC. Our partners have helped make this event possible, and wish everyone a fantastic time here at the Emirates Equestrian Centre.”

Duleep George, Executive Director Marketing & Sales added: “Gulf News has been involved with the Dubai Show Jumping Championship since its inception and we are honoured to be associated with this event this year too. We are looking forward to witnessing some spectacular show jumping during the three days of the championship”.

Longines, is proud to combine precision and sophistication with its line of timepieces and elemental history in the world of sports. Recording some of the founding moments in the history of sporting events as the key timekeepers, Longines confidently greets the 2010 Dubai Show Jumping Championships with class, providing ‘Elegance as an Attitude’ in and amongst the region’s best horses and riders competing for the Grand Prize.

Entrance is free and entertainment includes food and beverage stands, pony rides, face painting, sand art, henna, inflatable games, clowns, stilt walkers, jugglers, a magician, fire displays, and a children’s play area.

Apart from being one of the highlights of the equestrian calendar in the Middle East, there is also plenty of action outside the main arena, with a wide variety of family entertainment and chances to win fantastic prizes.

Prizes include gift vouchers from Dreamland Aqua Park, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Bab Al Shams and Emirates Equestrian Centre. There are also gifts from Contempo, Tiffany & Co, Crystal Gallery and Gulf International.

Gates open from 7am to 6pm on Thursday and Saturday; and 9am to 6pm on Friday.

For further information about tickets please call +971 50 553 7986 or email info@emiratesequestriancentre.com