The 36-year-old is part of a strong field set to do battle in the Concours de Saut International (CSI) 5* LGCT Grand Prix of Doha at the Al Shaqab equestrian venue, marking the start of the 14th edition of the series.

More than 50 riders from 17 countries are entered with Australia's Edwina Tops-Alexander, Belgium's Gregory Wathelet and France’s Roger-Yves Bost among the other names to look out for.

"I am very happy to be in Doha - we call this our second home," LGCT President Jan Tops was reported as saying by Eurosport.

"We have been here for many years and have a great relationship with [Al Shaqab and the Qatar Foundation].

"Everyone is watching the start of the season to see which horse and rider combinations are on form.

"The focus [from around the world] is on Doha and this amazing facility."

Maher also tasted victory in last year's Global Champions League (GCL), another CSI5* series due to start this weekend alongside the LGCT.

The fourth edition of the GCL comprises 16 teams made up of six international riders, including one who is aged 25 or under.

GCL squads must compete at each show of the series, with two to three riders per team per event.

Furthermore, one rider at each show must be relatively highly-placed in the rankings. 

All teams are named after different cities on the competition circuit.

Maher helped London Knights win the 2018 GCL crown with the team also including Switzerland’s Martin Fuchs, Belgians Olivier Philippaerts and Nicola Philippaerts and Britain’s Emily Moffitt.

Austria's Max Kühner is a new addition to the side for this year.