RIYADH: The Al-Sharqiyah International Beauty Festival for Purebred Arabian Horses opened on Thursday at Al-Ahsa Municipality Castle.

The three-day festival is being held under the patronage of Eastern Region Gov. Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz.

Supported by Al-Ahsa Gov. Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr and organized by the King Abdulaziz Arabian Horse Center, the event features 278 horses from 188 owners across six countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Competitors will vie for six championships across 16 races through March 7, highlighting the purity and aesthetic conformation of the Arabian breed.

A chosen group of horses is taking part in the championship titles in the festival, recognized as one of the highest-ranking Arabian horse beauty shows in the region, featuring substantial monetary prizes.

By hosting the prestigious international gathering, Al-Ahsa reinforces its status as a premier cultural hub, promoting tourism and heritage in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.