Your ultimate guide to AlUla Desert Polo 2026 happening this weekend
Saddle up. The prestigious AlUla Desert Polo, organised by the Royal Commission for AlUla, returns for its fifth edition this weekend
Where else can you watch world-class polo surrounded by ancient rock formations and golden desert sands? AlUla Desert Polo returns this weekend on Friday January 16 and Saturday January 17, transforming the historic landscape into a premier destination for elite equestrian sport.
A flagship event on AlUla’s sporting calendar, AlUla Desert Polo celebrates the region’s longstanding equestrian heritage while providing a sophisticated, globally attractive experience that blends tradition, sport and luxury.
Everything to know before the first chukka begins
An official team presentation will take place on Thursday January 15. Over two days of competition, six teams will compete in nine matches, delivering top-tier polo set among the towering sandstone canyons at Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Equestrian Village.
The tournament schedule features six matches on Day 1, followed by three crucial games on Day 2, culminating in the Grand Final and the awards ceremony, where the AlUla Desert Polo 2026 champions will be crowned.
This year’s edition brings together 18 players across six teams, including a star-studded line-up of international professionals such as David “Pelón” Stirling Jr., Pablo MacDonough, Ignacio Figueras, Lia Salvo, Catalina Maria Lavinia, and Felix Alejo Ortiz de Taranco Stirling.
Joining the professionals on the pitch are royals and local players, including HRH Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Salman Al Saud, who adds to the tournament’s prestige and competitive spirit.
Lending their support and expertise to the event are esteemed patrons Alejandro Antonio Poma Raskosky, Babar Naseem, Naveen Jindal, Venkatesh Jindal, Angus David St John Paradice, and Jennifer Rae Luttrell Benardoni, whose involvement further elevates AlUla Desert Polo’s standing on the international polo calendar.
Beyond the elegance of the pitch and the fashion-forward crowd, AlUla Desert Polo provides a full-day experience for spectators of all ages. Guests can enjoy gourmet food, live music, and immersive entertainment, with key highlights including a dedicated Kids Zone featuring family-friendly activities. The festival atmosphere is further enhanced by traditional and contemporary musical performances, pop-up retail shops, and interactive installations showcasing local crafts and culture.
The finest polo players, thundering hooves, gripping polo action, and family-friendly fun promise an exhilarating two days for the whole community.
Tickets are now on sale, with single-day passes starting at SAR380 and a two-day pass at SAR570 when purchased through the app.
For those seeking an enhanced experience, the Polo Players Circle add-on provides all Premium Pass benefits, plus guided access to the field before or after matches. Guests will have the opportunity to meet players, take photos, and receive exclusive event souvenirs.
There is nothing like speed and the beauty of horses to fall in love with at the AlUla Desert Polo.
Location: AlUla Desert Polo 2026, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi Equestrian Village, AlUla
Timings: Jan 16 & 17, Noon to 6.30pm
Cost: Ticket starts at SAR380 via the app and SAR400 via the website for a one-day premium pass
Images: Supplied
