Big rush for Abu Dhabi hunting and equestrian show

INT84International/SportsBig rush for Abu Dhabi hunting and equestrian showDubai, Sep 25 IANS An annual hunting and equestrian show in Abu Dhabi is witnessing a big rush this year with the organisers being compelled to increase the exhibition area by 27 percent. There has been an increased interest in the International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition to be held in Abu Dhabi Oct 8-11 from Gulf nations as well as countries from other parts of the world, its organisers said. According to Abuduallah Al Qubaisi, member of the organising committee and director of the exhibition, because of increased interest from exhibitors, the total area of the event at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre has been increased by 55 percent from 22,232 square metres to 34,482 square metres while the net area of bookings has been increased from 12,775 square metres to 16,281 square metres - a rise of about 27 percent. “The growing demand for participation by hundreds of exhibitors from various countries underlines the continuing success of the exhibition and its prestigious reputation,” Al Qubaisi said. The exhibition is being organised by the Emirates Falconers' Club with support from the Abu Dhabi Authority on Culture and Heritage ADACH. Among the highlights of the 2008 event are equestrian shows and horse auctions, camel auctions, falconry auctions and beauty contests, a beauty contest of the Arabian desert hound saluki, art, poetry and handicraft competitions and folk dance performances. The event, which is in its fifth edition this year, drew 86,000 visitors from around the world in 2007. According to the Emirates Falconers' Club statement, sales of exhibitors in 2007 increased by more than 60 percent compared to 2006. --Indo-Asian News Serviceab/rd/vt 299 Words25092005