Some of the world’s top players are being lined up to compete in the inaugural event As well as watching the tournament, attendees can learn the principles of the game in a one-hour introductory program RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is to stage its first official desert polo tournament in the spectacular natural arena of the AlUla UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the world’s top players are being lined up to compete in the championship event which will be held under the supervision of the Saudi Polo Federation from Jan. 16 to 18. Part of the Winter at Tantora festival, the sporting occasion will also combine culture and entertainment activities and events based around AlUla’s rich heritage. The tournament has been inspired by the Snow Polo World Cup held in the luxury Alpine resort town of St. Moritz, in Switzerland, and aims to embrace the grace, elegance and high-level hospitality and traditions of the game, often referred to as the sport of kings. Organized by the Royal Commission for AlUla and the Saudi Polo Federation, the competition – to be staged at a historic but as yet unannounced location – will be one of the most prominent events of the festival, which runs from December to March. Federation chairman, Amr Zedan, said the tournament had been planned to celebrate the development journey of the Kingdom while aiming “to attract young talents in Saudi Arabia interested in polo and encourage more people to participate in the game.” He added that the event had also been designed to introduce the world to AlUla’s astonishing beauty and offer visitors the chance to explore its fascinating sites. The commission’s CEO, Amr Al-Madani, said the polo championship was a welcome addition to the list of Winter at Tantora events. The festival will offer those interested in polo a one-day or weekend package to not only watch the tournament but learn the principles of the game in a one-hour introductory program. A maximum of 10 people per day will be admitted onto the program on a first-come, first-served basis. To buy packages and tickets or for more details on the Winter at Tantora Festival, visit holidaysbysaudia.com, experiencealula.com and almosafer.com.