Image from Arte & Lusso
Horse riding has been an integral part of the culture and heritage of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for centuries. Along with the falcon and the ghaf tree, horses are one of the most important symbols of the UAE. In the past, horses served as essential companions, transport, and symbols of social status for the Bedouin people. Today, horse riding remains an essential cultural and social activity, and the UAE has built a thriving equestrian industry around it.
Horse riding as a cultural heritage in the UAE
The equestrian culture has a long and rich history in the UAE and is deeply ingrained in the country’s cultural heritage. Horses have played an important role in the lives of Emiratis for centuries, serving as modes of transportation, symbols of power and wealth, and sources of pride and joy.
Historically, horses were used for travel across the desert, and were essential for the survival of the Bedouin tribes who lived in the region. These tribes would often hold horse races and other equestrian competitions to showcase their horsemanship skills and honor their horses.
In addition to practical uses, horses also played a significant role in social and cultural events, including weddings, festivals, and other celebrations. Emiratis would often adorn their horses with intricate traditional decorations and attire, such as colorful ribbons and tassels.
Today, horse riding remains an important part of Emirati culture, and the UAE has built a thriving equestrian industry around it. You may be interested in this extensive list of equestrians events held in the UAE.
In recognition of the cultural significance of horses in the UAE, the government has established a number of initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the country’s equestrian heritage. For example, the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority hosts the annual Al Dhafra Festival, which features traditional equestrian competitions and other cultural events to celebrate the Bedouin tradition and culture. The Dubai Equestrian Club also offers a range of equestrian activities and events that celebrate Emirati culture and history.
Horse riding has played a vital role in the history and equestrian culture in the UAE, and continues to be an important part of the country’s identity today.
The Arabian horse – most popular breed in the UAE
Photo by Aliaksei Semirski
The Arabian horse is the most popular breed in the UAE and is revered for its physical endurance and ability to withstand the difficult climate conditions of the region.
Arabian horses are a distinct breed that originated on the Arabian Peninsula and have been bred for thousands of years. They are known for their distinctive head shape, with a dished profile and large nostrils, as well as their arched necks and high-set tails.
One of the most remarkable features of Arabian horses is their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environmental conditions. The breed evolved in the Arabian desert, where temperatures can soar to over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, and as a result, they have developed unique adaptations that allow them to conserve water and regulate their body temperature.
Horses are part of the family
The Arabian horse is also known for his intelligence and loyalty. They have been used for a wide range of purposes throughout history, including transportation, war, and racing. The Arabian horse is in fact one of the main symbols of the equestrian culture in the UAE. These horses were a crucial part of Bedouin life and were often treated as members of the family, living in close proximity with their owners in tents or other temporary dwellings. Over time, the Bedouin people developed a deep bond with their Arabian horses, which they believed to be a gift from Allah. They took great care in breeding and raising their horses, often selecting only the strongest and most resilient animals to pass on their genes to future generations.
One of the most popular breed in the world
In the 21st century, Arabian horses continue to be a popular breed for equestrian activities in the UAE, particularly for endurance riding, which requires horses to cover long distances over difficult terrain. In fact, the UAE is home to one of the most prestigious endurance riding events in the world, the President of the UAE Endurance Cup, which attracts top riders and horses from around the globe.
These horses come with a rich history and many desirable characteristics. For this reason, Arabian horses are also commonly used to improve a wide variety of horse breeds, including Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, and Warmbloods. The Arabian horse continues to be a popular choice for equestrian enthusiasts in the region and beyond.
Horse riding today in the UAE
Photo by Valter Zhara
Horse riding remains a popular activity in the UAE, with a thriving equestrian industry that offers a range of facilities and events for riders of all levels. The equestrian culture in the UAE is also supported by the government, which has invested heavily in the development of equestrian infrastructure and initiatives aimed at promoting equestrian tourism.
Some of the best equestrian facilities in the UAE include the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, and the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club. These facilities offer a wide range of services, including riding lessons, horse rentals, and competitive events.
There are also many famous equestrian events held in the UAE throughout the year. The Dubai World Cup, held annually at the Meydan Racecourse, is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world, attracting top jockeys and horses from around the globe. Other notable events include the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition and the Dubai International Horse Fair.
In addition to local events, the UAE is also a popular destination for equestrian tourism. Visitors can take guided tours of local farms and riding centers, go on horseback rides through the desert, and participate in traditional equestrian activities such as falconry and camel racing. In these articles you can find a comprehensive list of stables around Dubai, from Al Ruwayyah desert to Al Khawaneej.
The main equestrians activities in the UAE
The UAE offers a range of equestrian activities for riders of all levels, from beginners to professionals. Horse racing remains one of the most popular activities, with world-class facilities like the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai and the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club hosting a range of races throughout the year.
In addition to horse racing, the UAE is also home to a thriving show jumping scene, with events like the President’s Cup and the Dubai Show Jumping Championship drawing riders from around the world. Endurance riding is also super popular, with events like the Dubai Crown Prince Endurance Cup offering riders the chance to compete in grueling races through the desert landscape.
The government involvement in the equestrian industry
The government of the UAE has played an important role in the development of the equestrian industry in the country, recognizing the importance of horses in the country’s cultural heritage and the potential of the equestrian industry as a source of economic growth and tourism.
The different Emirates support the equestrian industry through the development of equestrian infrastructures. For example, the Dubai Equine Hospital is one of the largest and most advanced equine hospitals in the world, offering state-of-the-art medical care for horses. The government has also invested in the development of world-class equestrian facilities such as the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club and the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.
The UAE government has also established regulatory bodies to oversee and regulate the equestrian industry. For example, the Emirates Equestrian Federation (EEF) is responsible for regulating equestrian sports and activities in the UAE, ensuring that they are conducted safely and in accordance with international standards.
As for the equestrian tourism, the UAE government has initiated a number of programs aimed for tourists from all around the world. For example, the Dubai Tourism Authority offers a range of equestrian tourism packages that include horse riding lessons, guided tours of local stables, and desert horseback rides. Furthermore, the government also promotes equestrian events that celebrate the country’s cultural heritage. For instance, the Dubai World Cup is not only a major international horse racing event, but also a celebration of equestrian culture in the UAE and Emirati heritage.
Horse welfare concerns
While the UAE has made significant investments in the equestrian industry, concerns have been raised about the welfare of horses used for racing and other equestrian activities. The UAE has been accused of using performance-enhancing drugs in horse racing and of overworking horses in endurance riding events.
In response to these concerns, the UAE has taken steps to improve the welfare of horses in the equestrian industry. The Emirates Racing Authority (ERA), for example, has implemented a range of measures to ensure that horses are treated ethically and humanely, including regulations on the use of performance-enhancing drugs and regular veterinary checks.
Despite these efforts, some equestrian enthusiasts argue that more needs to be done to protect the welfare of horses in the UAE. They call for stricter regulations on the use of more comprehensive veterinary checks to ensure that horses are not overworked or mistreated.
In conclusion, horse riding remains an important part of the cultural heritage and social fabric of the UAE, and the country has built a thriving equestrian industry around it.
As the industry continues to grow, it will be important for the UAE to remain committed to protecting the welfare of horses and ensuring that they are treated ethically and humanely.
