As a reminder – the main strategic goals of GCAT are: to promote the uniqueness of purebred Arabian horses through an international platform, to preserve their unique heritage, and to maintain transparency, fairness, and integrity in their competitions. To build a strong foundation for the exhibitions of these horses in order to increase interest and support their development. To connect people and their cultures across the globe through shared passion, and to encourage openness, respect, and exchange of experience in the given areas.
This year, the GCAT series expanded to the American continent under the name GCAT Americas, where prize money totaling 2,675,000 USD will be awarded from the 2025 final fund. The American tour includes five prestigious shows held in Scottsdale (USA), Miami (USA), São Paulo (BRA), Brandon (CAN), and Las Vegas (USA), which will conclude the entire GCAT Americas 2025 series. But let’s return to the GCAT series that concerns us more than you might imagine.
In 2025, the GCAT series includes a total of 8 competitions—4 held in the Middle East and 4 in Europe. This year, the tour kicked off immediately after the New Year celebrations, with the first event taking place from January 3rd to 6th in Ajman, United Arab Emirates. It was the very first time GCAT was held in Ajman, and both the venue and organization left spectators and competitors absolutely amazed. The quality of the horses, excellent catering, breathtaking views from the arena over the crystal-clear sea and Al Zorah beaches, the cultural village, and the accompanying program—crowned by a stunning fireworks and drone show—set the bar extremely high and proved that last year’s GCAT edition was merely a warm-up for something truly extraordinary.
The second scheduled round of 2025 took place from February 5th to 8th in Doha, Qatar. The total prize money exceeded €3,700,000, with more than 250 horses competing. The competition in Doha is always one of the largest on the entire tour, and this year’s edition was no exception. The arena, built right on the beach of the Katara Cultural District, captivates not only with its size but especially with its sea view and its meticulously designed decor—refined down to the last detail, from the floor to the roof. Doha also boasts one of the highest attendance rates, and on the final day of the competition, not a single seat in the stands is left unoccupied. Everyone present contributes to a truly unique atmosphere, reminiscent of international football matches or other major sporting events. The icing on the cake is the annual closing ceremony, which always exceeds expectations with its scale and creativity.
A month later, from March 6th to 8th, the 2025 GCAT series moved to Muscat, Oman. Due to the ongoing Ramadan celebrations, the competition at the Al Bustan Palace venue began each day in the early evening. The stunning scenery of Omani nature, the vibrantly decorated arena, and its nighttime lighting created an almost magical backdrop—one that highlighted the beauty of purebred Arabian horses even more. The Omani leg of GCAT attracted over 100 horses, competing for a total prize pool of €1,050,000.
The final leg of the GCAT competitions in the Middle East this year took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. From April 9th to 12th, the Janadiriyah showjumping arena in the city center welcomed over 300 competitors. Saudi Arabia is well known for its passion for sports and for Arabian horses in particular. The Riyadh round thus became not only a celebration of the beauty of Arabian horses but also a tribute to the country’s rich history and traditions. Compared to last year, the 2025 edition saw a complete redesign of the VIP interior decorations and the arena’s projection system, which delivered original and unexpected visual effects. Moreover, the quality of the horses amazed all attendees, with many being surprised by the appearance of several new horses that had not yet competed in the GCAT series.
The conclusion of the Riyadh leg marked the halfway point of the 2025 GCAT series. From here, the entire competition shifts to Europe, with a finale that promises to be particularly exciting for us.Before the grand conclusion, enthusiasts, participants, and competitors will gather in Cannes, France on June 14–15, followed by Valkenswaard, Netherlands on July 18–20, and then London on August 14–17. The final round will take place in Prague from September 5–7. Yes, the Prague leg of this series builds on the well-known Prague Intercup, and the organizers from ACHPAK ČR (Association of Purebred Arabian Horse Breeders of the Czech Republic) have signed an exclusive cooperation agreement. As a result, this final round will carry the combined name GCAT Prague Intercup, as it merges the very best accomplishments both events have achieved so far. If the entire tour has captured your interest, you definitely won’t want to miss this experience on home soil. It will undoubtedly be one of the standout events of the year. Full details will be published soon—and we look forward to seeing you there!
