The Federation Equestre Internationale chose Butheeb International Endurance Village in the United Arab Emirates as the replacement host for the FEI Endurance World Championship 2026. The decision was made during a board teleconference on July 28 and announced the next day. It follows the FEI’s July 1 decision to withdraw the event from AlUla in Saudi Arabia and reopen the bidding process. The Butheeb bid was selected from four strong submissions the FEI reported.
FEI President Ingmar De Vos welcomed the outcome. “We are very pleased with the decision to award the FEI Endurance World Championship 2026 to Butheeb” he said. De Vos pointed to the multiple bids as evidence of solidarity within the endurance community and a shared commitment to staging the event. He recalled the outstanding 2022 championship at Butheeb and noted the organising committee’s proven track record in hosting top-level competitions.
“In taking its decision the Board considered all relevant factors in particular the safety and security of human and equine athletes” De Vos added in the statement. The organiser submitted a detailed plan covering all sporting aspects of the championship along with a comprehensive logistics outline including costs of transportation and accommodation of horses and delegations as well as contingency plans. The FEI was satisfied that all necessary conditions would be in place for a safe and successful championship. De Vos expressed gratitude to the organising committee and the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation for their continued support of the discipline.
Since 2004 the Butheeb International Endurance Village has hosted around 180 FEI events and 361 national endurance competitions according to the FEI. The venue has gained global recognition for its modern well-equipped veterinary clinic. That facility features digital X-ray ultrasonography and other diagnostic services supported by highly qualified veterinarians and laboratory technicians.
The clinic is located close to the Central Vet Gates and the Holding Area with examination areas stables for in-patient treatment observation and administrative facilities the FEI assessment found. The competition course passes through a forestry reserve combining desert sand terrain natural tracks and gently undulating sections. Butheeb has earned a reputation for producing technical rides that prioritise horse welfare.
The venue operates in line with its mission to deliver exceptional international endurance events that celebrate sporting excellence place horse welfare at the heart of every decision embrace innovation and sustainability and create unforgettable experiences for athletes officials spectators and partners the FEI stated. This will mark the second time Butheeb has hosted the world championship after the 2022 edition. The selection ensures continuity for the discipline’s flagship senior event following the change in venue.
