Abu Dhabi, Aug 3 - The capital of the United Arab Emirates is gearing up to host the popular hunting and equestrian exhibition in September. Last year it attracted 95,000 visitors from 37 countries, WAM news agency reported Monday.

The four-day exhibition last year exceeded all expectations as contracts worth millions of UAE dirhams were signed and more than 85 million dirhams (about $23 million) were generated at the event.

The organising committee of the event will hold promotional activities to attract more participants - last year saw 526 participants - and visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council to the event.

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage.

'Another highlight at the event this year is a beauty contest for pure bred Arab horses.