AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-: One of the most exclusive, exciting and visually stunning events will take place in Saudi Arabia this weekend with the start of the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of AlUla, home of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra, the desert polo event is an evolution of one of the world’s oldest sports and will deliver unbridled luxury alongside sporting theatre on the ancient sands.
For newcomers to the sport and AlUla, we’ve put together a summary of the weekend event which combines fashion, history, sport, entertainment and whole lot more.
What is the event?
Widely regarded as the Game of Kings, the origins of polo can be traced back to the 5th Century BC. Horseback riders play in teams and use long mallets to hit the ball into goals at each end. The action is fast and furious and, while traditionally played on grass, the sport has been evolved for desert play.
Around the action on the main arena is a vast entertainment function for guests who will be treated to first-class hospitality all within the stunning landscape of AlUla for what must be one of world sport’s most unique events.
When is it happening?
The historic event in 2020 was the first of its kind, organised by Royal Commission for AlUla and the Saudi Polo Federation. It returns this year on February 11-12, 2022 as the finale of the Winter at Tantora festival. Matches start at 3pm and 5pm on Friday, 2pm and 4pm on Saturday.
Where is it taking place?
AlUla Desert Polo is the first of its kind and takes place in AlUla in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Known as the world’s masterpiece, it is one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula and home to Hegra, the largest conserved site of the civilisation of the Nabataeans south of Petra in Jordan.
AlUla has a deep and rich horse heritage and this is being revived as part of plans to welcome the world’s equestrians to enjoy sports, events and leisure riding trails in the unique canyons and desert landscapes. Riding horseback amongst the desert splendor and ancient rock formations, in the footsteps of past civilisations, is an unforgettable experience for both advanced and aspiring equestrians.
Who is competing?
Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo will see four teams clash in a specially-designed arena within the natural rock formations with players drawn from the invited patrons and professional players from the global polo community.
The Argentine Open Champions, La Dolfina Saudi, known as ‘a perfect team’ and the best team in the world, have confirmed their participation. Adolfo Cambiaso, David (Pelón) Stirling, Pablo Mac Donough and Juan Martín Nero, all 10-goal handicap players in their own right, will be leading one team each at this year’s Desert Polo.
The remaining players include members of the Saudi Royal family and leading regional polo patrons including HRH Salman bin Mansour AlSaud and HH Prince Abdulrahman bin Faisal AlSaud.
What is the dress code?
Desert chic, subtle earthy tones or winter whites are sure to be the flavor with a focus more on style and comfort. Think full length dresses, flowing maxi skirts, tailored jumpsuits and pastel pant suits.
It’s the time of year when men can become more colourful too and we expect to see Saudi’s sporting a range of traditional dress thobes with matching shemagh. Others will likely be opting for sports jackets with chinos or pants. Men can be just as creative with their choice of colors – lilac, canary yellow, salted caramel are all trending this season.
Sure to be the essential item is the farwah – a Saudi Arabian full length thick cape, which can be worn for both men and women and be dressed up with accessories. Footwear needs to be chosen carefully to accommodate the desert surrounds.
The celebrated polo players will be sporting their own special jewelry pieces. Solid silver bracelets are inspired by the heritage of AlUla, incorporating designs and motifs central to the region along with a very special polo insignia.
What can we expect from the food and beverage?
Delicious food options including canapés and refreshing beverages will add a new dimension to the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo experience. Each menu, served across a variety of luxurious lounges, has been especially curated to offer the best flavors of AlUla with local, organic produce giving a unique AlUla experience.
Recognized chefs, including the local graduates who travelled to learn their trade at the legendary Ferrandi School, have worked with international talent to craft the Arabic-led fusion menus.
What other entertainment outside of the game?
Live entertainment will include horse shows, traditional music and popular female Saudi DJ Kayan.
Where can we watch it?
While tickets are sold out, the event will be streamed live on YouTube
Desert Polo stream key information in English
Stream key: j9yz-6wu8-pdqc-1rdc-55t1
Stream URL: rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2
View URL – Feb 11: https://youtu.be/tKWSjjcXrB8
View URL – Feb 12: https://youtu.be/wDNMpduYPIo
Desert Polo stream key information in English
Stream key: 4zbq-5qu3-3atw-uagh-0hez
Stream URL: rtmp://a.rtmp.youtube.com/live2
Backup server URL: rtmp://b.rtmp.youtube.com/live2?backup=1
View URL – Feb 11: https://youtu.be/_La9WMd9r_4
View URL – Feb 12: https://youtu.be/BUJmXjJxqCI
More info www.experiencealula.com.