Erbil hosted the 2025 Kurdistan Arabian Horse Beauty Championship, attracting breeders, trainers, and horse lovers from across Iraq and neighbouring countries. The event highlighted Iraq’s deep equestrian heritage and the region’s growing tourism sector.
Eighty purebred Arabian horses competed over two days, showcasing elegance, movement, and lineage purity. The Kurdistan Arabian Horse Beauty Championship has become a major annual event celebrating the Arabian breed’s grace and endurance.
Organised by the Kurdistan Equestrian Federation with support from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the championship promotes both cultural pride and economic growth. Spectators filled the venue, including local families and international visitors, boosting Erbil’s hospitality sector.
Judges evaluated each horse on beauty, symmetry, and performance. Breeders described the contest as a celebration of history and identity, linking ancient traditions with modern culture.
The KRG views equestrian sports as a key part of cultural tourism and plans to expand future editions of the event. Next year’s competition is expected to draw even more participants and international attention.
By hosting the Kurdistan Arabian Horse Beauty Championship, Erbil reinforced its position as a cultural and tourism hub, preserving Iraq’s heritage while driving new opportunities for local development.