In the presence of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge was held at Desert Palm Resort & Polo Club on Saturday 21st February 2015.
One of the most prestigious happenings on Dubai’s sporting and social calendar, the event was attended by Royals, celebrities, socialites, and of course some of the most recognised polo players in the world.
The Cartier International Dubai Polo Challenge was first held in March 2006. This year, for the first time, six teams battled it out for the coveted Trophy in what has become regarded as the most celebrated tournament of the year.
In a thrilling final, the Desert Palm team featuring Rashid Albwardy and Alan Meeker took the win, defeating the UAE Polo Team patroned by HH Sheikha Maitha Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum 10-4. Unfortunately, the morning’s sandstorm had forced the cancellation of the subsidiary Desert Palm Trophy on pony welfare grounds and so Cartier Red and Abu Dhabi agreed to tie for third place.
Among attendees at the event were American socialite Olivia Palermo, Lebanese singer Ragheb Alama, Marques of Blandford George Spencer-Churchill, Ambassador of La Martina, HRH Prince Abbas bin Ali bin Nayef of Jordan accompanied by his wife, HRH Princess Sima Al Abbas and HRH Princess Yasmine Bint Asem bin Nayef.
Following the game, guests continued to enjoy a wonderful atmosphere and admire the elegant setting of the event, delighting in Cartier’s exquisite hospitality. Spectators enjoyed a sumptuous afternoon tea at this social gathering of the season. Throughout the afternoon they were welcomed at the Cartier Villa that was transformed beautifully to premiere the new Clé de Cartier watch creations. This outstanding collection was presented for the first time following its global launch at the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in January, and will be available in all boutiques worldwide starting April 2015.
