People in AlUla, get ready to hear the sound of hooves next week. AlUla Desert Polo 2026 returns for its 5th edition, once again turning one of Saudi Arabia’s most historic landscapes into a stage for elite equestrian sport.
AlUla Desert Polo Returns In January With World-Class Talent & Desert Drama
Running from January 16 to 17, 2026, the event brings international professionals, royal players, and high-profile patrons together for two intense days of competition. It all begins a day earlier, on January 15, with the official team presentation. According to coverage by the Saudi Press Agency, the tournament continues to strengthen AlUla’s position as a global destination for premium sporting events.
Six Teams, Nine Matches, No Room For Mistakes
This year’s competition features six teams and 18 players. It’s spread across nine matches. The action unfolds at the striking Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Equestrian Village. The lineup reads like a who’s who of the polo world. International professionals, including David “Pelón” Stirling Jr., Pablo MacDonough, Ignacio Figueras, Lia Salvo, Catalina Maria Lavinia, and Felix Alejo Ortiz de Taranco Stirling, alongside royal and local players.
Patrons, Prestige, And Serious Backing
Behind the teams stand patrons who understand both sport and stature. For 2026, team patrons include Alejandro Antonio Poma Raskosky, Babar Naseem, Naveen Jindal, Venkatesh Jindal, Angus David St John Paradice, and Jennifer Rae Luttrell Benardoni.
AlUla Desert Polo goes on for a three-day program that pairs high-level sport with premium hospitality, curated entertainment, and fashion-forward social spaces.
Fans looking for closer access can opt for the Polo Players Circle add-on with guided field access before or after matches, player meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, and exclusive souvenirs.
Also Read: AlUla’s Winter At Tantora Festival Returns With Culture, Music And Desert Magic
A Flagship Event
The AlUla Desert Polo marked its debut in 2020 and has grown to be one of the best events on the AlUla Moments calendar.
Cover Image Courtesy: Experience AlUlA/Website
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