Lisa Abraham: The Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup: USA!
by
Lisa Abraham
September 16th, 2026
The 2026 Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup USA
By Lisa Abraham
With Contributions by Kathleen Ohlsson, Laura Mascagna, and Van Jacobsen
The Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup (EAHGC) operates under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and with the support of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS) Board of Directors. It launched in 2023 and held its first event in 2024, which was hosted in Australia as part of the Australian International Arabian Horse Championships.
Created by the Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS), the EAHGC supports smaller breeders by rewarding achievement with generous prize money and international exposure. It also gives EAHS another meaningful example of its long-term commitment to the Arabian Horse, both within the UAE and around the world. They have organized competitions on all continents with breed participation: three in Europe, one in Africa, three in Asia, one in Australia, one in North America, and one in South America.
The United States is a large territory filled with endless landscapes and a variety of local and regional cultures. Scottsdale, known worldwide for its equine lifestyle, was a logical choice for their North American destination. The community is engaged and quick to support equine events, embracing all breeds and disciplines. A prime example is the Scottsdale All Arabian Show, which has taken place every February since 1955. It draws around 2000 competing horses and hosts between 250,00 and 300,000 guests annually. While attending this event myself, I can share that it is common to meet people who say they “just came to see the Arabian show.”
The 2026 EAHGC USA
The 2026 EAHGC USA took place on September 16th-19th, 2026. It was held alongside another important Scottsdale venue, the Arabian National Breeder Finals (ANBF), also organized by the Arizona Arabian Horse Association and hosted at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Both EAHGC and the ANBF share similar objectives, making the partnership complementary.
The EAHGC brought an exciting international flavor to Scottsdale, and at the top of the list was the addition of Mr. Saeed Almamari (UAE), a globally known newsman who reported for Abu Dhabi TV and Yas Channel. Mr. Almamari opened the show each day for his televised audience and interviewed guests and participants throughout the three days. His style, charisma, and professionalism elevated the competitive energy. However, perhaps his most significant contribution was demonstrating the high esteem in which the United Arab Emirates holds the EAHGC and the EAHS and the resulting accomplishments.
The show operated under the rules of the European Conference of Arab Horse Organizations (ECAHO), and the international panel of judges included: Kathleen Ohlsson (SWE), Laura Mascagna (ITA), and Van Jacobsen (USA). In all Qualifying Classes, the Top Five winners were awarded 2000 EUROS. The Champions earned exquisite trophies elegantly designed and decorated with symbolism honoring UAE heritage and traditions. Attending Championship Day were H.E. Hessa Alshuwaihi, UAE Consul-General in Los Angeles, and H.E. Mohamed Al Harbi, Director General of the EAHS and Vice Chairman of the EAHGC Committee.
Contributions
It was an honor to judge the Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup in Scottsdale. As always, the Emirates Arabian Horse Society demonstrated exceptional organization, professionalism, and hospitality. The outstanding prizes reflected the importance placed on supporting the Arabian horse community. The EAHGC initiative is especially valuable for smaller breeders and owners because it gives them a prestigious international platform to showcase their horses and breeding programs.
~Judge Kathleen Ohlsson
As an ECAHO DC, National Judge, and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, I look at everything, not just the horse in front of me. In all instances, I believe our first concern should be the protection and welfare of the horses. Competition can be hard on horses. While many have traveled, all are expected to perform in an unfamiliar environment. Although I was impressed with the overall facility, I appreciated the arena footing--it was good for the horses and for us. The stables accommodated the horses nicely and were also safe for handlers. On a personal level, and as a member of a family who bred Arabian horses, I appreciate EAHGC's support for small breeders internationally. My uncle founded the Associazione Nazionale Italiana Cavallo Arabo (ANICA), so I fully understand what it takes to launch and manage an organization of this magnitude.
I would like to thank H.E. Mohamed Al Harbi, Mr. Eidha Almenhali, and the Emirates Arabian Horse Society. In addition to the privilege of being invited to judge an important international event, Scottsdale was fun. One of my favorite things to do in the States is visit the Western Stores. On one free afternoon, several of us visited Boot Barn and the City Center, where I purchased souvenirs for my son and daughter.
~Judge Laura Mascagna
It was an honor to be a part of the officiating group in Scottsdale for the 2026 Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup USA. The Organizing Committee did an outstanding job promoting this internationally important Championship and attracted beautiful horses and an influential group of exhibitors. I would also like to extend a special thank you to Mr. Eidha Almenhali. Under his leadership, we received excellent support both in and out of the arena. The scoring process was smooth, and the procedures were easy to follow. I was particularly impressed with how the Emiratis enjoyed themselves and supported all entries. I would also like to thank H.E. Mohamed Al Harbi. It is a rewarding opportunity to judge shows of this size and quality.
~Judge Van Jacobsen
On a side note, I would like to share another observation. Famous investor Warren Buffett stated, “Watch how a potential business partner treats the taxi driver or the person clearing the table. If they are dismissive, walk away from the deal." This aligns with other well-known expressions suggesting how you treat others can reveal character.
Upon arriving in Phoenix, an elegant gentleman named Sameer was waiting for me with Scottsdale Sprinters, Buses and Limos--the service hired by the EAHGC. On the journey to Scottsdale, we had enough time for a pleasant chat. Sameer was not just professional; he was also kind. On the second day of the show, after classes, he took several of us shopping and was eager to share recommendations, all of which were excellent. On the last day of the show, I met Omar, the company owner, who was equally impressive. On the drive back to the hotel, we also shared an enjoyable conversation. But what impressed me most was how highly he regarded the members of the Emirates Society and his positive experiences with them.
We had incredible experiences working with H.E. Mohamed Al Harbi and Mr. Eidha Almenhali. I am a first-generation American of Egyptian descent but have never had the opportunity to experience Arabian horses until now. The EAHGC opened my eyes to an animal that has played an important role in my ancestral history, and I’m grateful for the knowledge they shared. Most importantly, though, Mr. Al Harbi and Eidha were extremely kind and generous. Also, his entire staff, from top to bottom, were professional and communicative, not just with me, but with my co-workers as well. Even though we are just a transportation company, Mr. Al Harbi even offered to host me and my family in Dubai. One-on-one, I also got to know Eihda, who was charismatic, well-spoken, and very impressive. We had several deep conversations both about horses and life in general. It was an honor to serve the members of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, and we were proud to share our beautiful city with them.
~Omar Ahmed
In closing, I feel privileged to be included as a team member with a group of people dedicated to the future and creating opportunities. However, I am proud to be associated with leaders who validate and empower their teammates.
For a FULL-SIZED gallery of Images of the 2026 EAHGC USA:
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For Arabian Essence TV show coverage and results of the 2026 Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup USA:
https://www.arabianessence.tv/events/eahgc-usa-2026/1089
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The Emirates Arabian Horse Global Cup:
https://eahgc.ae/
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For EAHS Calendar of Events and Terms of Conditions:
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Follow the Emirates Arabian Horse Society on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/emirateseahs/
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Lisa Abraham is an International Journalist and Photographer from the United States. Although she freelances for various media, her primary dedication is to Arabhorse.com as a Premier Contributor and Representative.
