News DeskAbu Dhabi, UAE – The UAE’s own Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi has been awarded the prestigious Longines FEI Rising Star Award during a gala ceremony on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. At just 21 years old, the young Jumping talent has made history as the first UAE rider to earn this recognition, accepting the honor alongside winners of the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award, Cavalor FEI Best Groom Award, and FEI Inspire Award.
Omar’s equestrian journey began at the age of seven at his father’s Albahiya Equestrian Club stables. Showing promise early on, he competed in his first national event at nine and made his international debut by age 12. In 2018, Omar’s skill led him to win an individual silver at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires—the UAE’s first medal in Jumping—a milestone that sparked his ambition to compete at the Olympic level. His determination continued to pay off as he earned individual silver and team bronze at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, securing his place on the UAE team for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
This year, Omar not only represented the UAE as the youngest equestrian competitor in Paris but also completed his studies at Sorbonne University in Abu Dhabi. With his horse, Enjoy de la Mure, Omar reached the Individual Final, finishing among the Top 20 at his first Olympics. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I feel so proud to win the Longines FEI Rising Star award, especially as it is the first time someone from UAE has received it. Competing in Paris was a dream come true.”
Presenting the award, Patrick Aoun, Longines Brand Manager for Middle East & South East Asia, commended Omar’s achievements, saying, “Omar embodies the spirit of excellence we celebrate with the FEI Rising Star Award. We look forward to watching his journey as he represents both his country and the sport with distinction.”
The FEI Awards, held annually since 2009, recognize exceptional contributions to equestrian sport across four categories. This year’s event in Abu Dhabi featured nominees from nine countries, including Olympic and world champions, as well as promising young athletes, dedicated grooms, and inspirational figures.
The ceremony marked the conclusion of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) General Assembly week in Abu Dhabi, where delegates from around the world gathered to discuss governance and the development of equestrian disciplines. Abu Dhabi, already a renowned host for equestrian events, also recently launched the first leg of the Longines League of Nations at Al Forsan, a competition set to return in 2025.
Also honored during the evening was German Olympic gold medallist Christian Kukuk, who received the Peden Bloodstock Best Athlete Award for his accomplishments, including a team victory at the Longines League of Nations and success at the FEI Endurance World Championship 2022 at Butheeb International Endurance Village (BIEV).
Omar’s rising career reflects a commitment to the sport that, with his horse Enjoy de la Mure, he hopes will continue through future Olympic Games, including a potential appearance in Los Angeles 2028.
