Dubai, UAE – Polo enthusiasts are in for a thrilling spectacle as the Emaar Polo Cup makes its much-anticipated return. The prestigious tournament, set to take place from February 10-23 at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, will see top regional teams battle it out in a 12-goal handicap competition for one of the UAE’s most coveted polo titles.
Defending Champions Face Tough Competition
Last year’s winners, Bin Drai Polo Team, are gearing up to defend their crown, but with six other formidable teams in the mix, the challenge will be fierce.
“It’s a really tough tournament—anything can happen on the day,” said Kian Hall, a key player for Bin Drai. “It’s getting more competitive each year, with stronger teams entering. We’ll do our best to defend the title.”
Bin Drai secured a dramatic victory over Bangash in last year’s final and will be looking to replicate their success in what promises to be an intense showdown.
The Growing Popularity of Polo in the UAE
The Emaar Polo Cup follows the UAE Polo Federation Cup, which set a new record with nine teams competing for the first time—highlighting the rising popularity of polo in the region.
“This tournament is vital for the growth of polo,” said Santiago Torreguitar, a member of the UAE Polo Federation tournament committee. “Every year, we see new partners joining, and more young players are taking up the sport.”
The UAE currently hosts three high-goal (20-goal level) tournaments and three medium-goal tournaments, demonstrating the country’s growing status as a global polo hub.
Exciting Matchups and Star Teams
This year’s tournament will feature an impressive lineup of seven elite teams, including:
- Abu Dhabi Polo Team
- El Basha Polo Team
- AM Polo Team
- Bin Drai Polo Team (defending champions)
- Noon Polo Team
- Equiti Polo Team
- Lamar Polo Team
The competition is expected to be fierce and unpredictable, with high-profile players showcasing their skills in pursuit of victory.
A Grand Polo Experience for Spectators
Beyond the action on the field, the Emaar Polo Cup offers a luxurious experience for spectators. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, with the highlight being the Ultimate Polo Brunch during the finals on February 23.
The brunch, held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, features a lavish spread of international cuisine, complemented by handcrafted beverages:
- Bubbly Package: Dh475 per adult
- House Package: Dh375 per adult
- Soft Package: Dh275 per adult
- Kids Polo Brunch: Dh140
For a more relaxed experience, the Picnic Basket package offers gourmet sandwiches and fresh juices, served in a scenic setting by the pool lawn overlooking the polo fields, priced at Dh375 for two.
High Stakes and Big Rewards
The tournament’s winners will walk away with a Dh80,000 cash prize, while the runners-up will receive Dh40,000—adding further intensity to an already highly competitive event.
A Legacy of Excellence
Ahmad Al Matrooshi, Executive Director of Emaar Properties, emphasized the tournament’s significance:
“The Emaar Polo Cup is not just a testament to skill and sportsmanship; it reflects the enduring legacy of polo in our region. By offering significant prize money and a vibrant event experience, we continue to promote sporting excellence and create unforgettable moments for both players and spectators.”
A Celebration of Polo’s Spirit
Nayef Bou Hamdan, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, expressed excitement about hosting the event:
“We are thrilled to welcome back the Emaar Polo Cup. It provides an incredible platform for local and regional teams to showcase their talent, and we look forward to an exhilarating tournament.”
With elite teams, high stakes, and an ever-growing audience, the Emaar Polo Cup 2025 is more than just a competition—it’s a celebration of skill, passion, and the timeless spirit of polo. Fans can expect intense battles, nail-biting finishes, and world-class polo action over the coming weeks in the heart of Dubai.
