In El Jadida, preparations are in full swing as the city gears up to host the 16th edition of the Horse Show, scheduled from September 30 to October 5 at the Mohammed VI Exhibition Park. Held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the event is expected to be a landmark occasion on the equestrian calendar, both in Morocco and internationally.
On September 9, Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari visited the site to assess progress, accompanied by provincial governor Mhamed Atfaoui, Horse Show Commissioner Dr. El Habib Marzak, and members of the organizing association. During the visit, they toured key facilities currently under construction, including competition arenas, horse reception zones, exhibition spaces, visitor routes, and entertainment areas. The pace of development is brisk, and El Bouari expressed satisfaction with the progress, confident that everything will be ready to welcome both exhibitors and guests in optimal conditions.
This year’s edition will spotlight equine welfare, with the theme “Horse Welfare: A Common Thread in Equestrian Practices” setting the tone for the event. Minister El Bouari praised the focus, calling it a significant step toward modernizing and professionalizing the industry while staying true to its ethical and cultural foundations.
According to the show’s commissioner, the event is more than just a celebration of horsemanship—it’s a vital platform for promoting Morocco’s image on the world stage. Each year, delegations from over 40 countries attend, helping to expand the Kingdom’s cultural and sporting influence abroad.
The program promises a packed schedule, featuring prestigious competitions like the Grand Prix of King Mohammed VI in Tbourida and Show Jumping, as well as breed championships for Barbs, Arab-Barbs, and Purebred Arabians. A series of expert-led conferences will delve into topics such as breeding, training, and innovation in equestrian practices. Younger visitors will also be catered to with a dedicated area offering educational and recreational activities, while performances from Moroccan and international troupes will keep crowds entertained throughout the week.
The Horse Show was launched in 2008 under royal directives and has been recognized as a public interest association since 2010. Chaired by Charif Moulay Abdallah Alaoui, the organizing body is committed to promoting Morocco’s rich equestrian heritage and advancing the sector—especially in rural regions, where horses continue to play a vital role in daily life and local culture.
