Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts has officially opened on Jubail Island, marking a major milestone for the UAE and the region. The new institution is the first of its kind outside Europe dedicated to classical horsemanship and introduces a new platform where heritage, training, and equestrian excellence come together.
A Landmark Inauguration
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, inaugurated Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman. Senior officials, ministers, and members of the equestrian community also attended the event.
During the tour, His Highness explored the key facilities of Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts, which highlight the institution’s educational, cultural, and artistic pillars.
A New Home for Classical Horsemanship
Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts is the fifth institution in the world specialising in classical horsemanship and the first outside Europe. It introduces this discipline to the region through a model that combines academic training, performance, and cultural preservation. The institution aims to continue the legacy of classical horsemanship, reconnecting it with the Arabian roots of riding traditions.
Key Facilities on Jubail Island
Furusiyya Gallery
The Furusiyya Gallery features one of the world’s most notable private collections of equestrian art and artefacts. With over 173 rare pieces covering more than 2,000 years, the gallery showcases how horsemanship evolved across cultures and highlights the long-standing relationship between people and horses.
The Saddle Atelier
The Saddle Atelier is the UAE’s first space dedicated to saddle craftsmanship. Visitors can observe the full process of design, creation, and restoration. Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts aims to protect this traditional craft while adopting modern techniques to support growth in the field.
Equestrian Library
With more than 14,000 rare books and manuscripts, the Equestrian Library is one of the largest of its kind worldwide. It serves as a research and knowledge hub, supporting academic studies and international collaboration to advance equestrian heritage.
Tack Room
The Tack Room displays curated equestrian equipment and includes an installation representing the 40 horses of Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts, symbolising the school’s culture, values, and Emirati equestrian identity.
A Global Cultural Moment for the UAE
The opening ceremony included a historic performance bringing together, for the first time, five leading schools of classical horsemanship from Austria, Spain, Portugal, France, and the UAE. The show reflected shared equestrian heritage between East and West and marked the return of the classical riding tradition to its Arabian origins.
Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Empowerment and Vice President of Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts, emphasized that the institution reflects the leadership’s commitment to protecting cultural heritage and strengthening the role of horsemanship in the UAE’s identity.
Training, Education, and Visitor Experiences
Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts spans 65,000 square metres and features interconnected cultural and educational spaces. It offers advanced training programmes for experienced riders, based on a curriculum focused on precision, discipline, and international standards.
The Junior Academy introduces children to horsemanship in a safe learning environment, teaching practical skills while instilling values linked to respect, care, and responsibility toward horses.
Now open to the public, Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts provides a range of experiences, including equestrian shows, exhibitions, training, and guided educational tours. Visitors can explore the galleries, learn about equestrian heritage, and watch live performances that highlight the art of riding.
Planning to visit the Kingdom?
If you’re planning a trip to Saudi Arabia soon, there’s a lot to look forward to, starting with Riyadh Season, which has just kicked off in the capital with a lineup of exciting events.
