National Bank of Dubai

NBD Sponsors the Al Maktoum International Show Jumping Challenge

Press Release (Dubai, January 16, 2004)

As part of its long-term commitment to the development of the UAE and its people, The National Bank of Dubai is sponsoring the region’s premiere equestrian event, the Al Maktoum International Show Jumping Challenge, taking place at the Emirates Riding Centre in Dubai until January 16th.

The Al Maktoum International Show Jumping Challenge, which was flagged off yesterday by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Maktoum is the highlight of the UAE Show Jumping and Dressage season and is dubbed the ‘Champion of Champions’ show.

The event now generates hundreds of entries from throughout the Middle East and even International and Olympic riders from as far a field as England, Germany and Holland. In 2002 Queen Rania of Jordan made a guest appearance to watch her niece HRH Princess Haya and Prince Abdulla of Jordan.

“Horse riding is part of Arabian heritage and there are many UAE Nationals that are taking part in this event,” commented Abdulfattah Sharaf, Divisional Head Cards, National Bank of Dubai. “It is important for local companies, like the National Bank of Dubai, to support these Nationals and help them achieve their sporting goals while at the same time supporting the Dubai Government in promoting the Emirate as the sporting capital of the Middle East.”

“The Al Maktoum International Show Jumping Challenge is one of the most important dates on the show jumping calendar, not only in the UAE, but the entire Gulf region and we hope our support contributes further to its long term success.”

In addition to the Al Maktoum International Show Jumping Challenge, NBD is a major sponsor of many local and international sports and business events in the UAE. These events include the 2003 Annual Board of Governors of the World Bank and International Monetary Fund in Dubai and the hugely successful Dubai Desert Classic.