There’s something extraordinary happening in Jeddah and it has to do with wellness. Wesal AlKhair, not your typical wellness center, combines the strength and grace of horses with the science of therapy, creating a space where people with disabilities can grow, heal, and find confidence.
Founded by Latifa Momenah in 2021, Wesal AlKhair is the first and only Therapeutic Horse-Riding Centre in the MENA region, and it’s transforming the meaning of therapy, one ride at a time.
The Story Behind Wesal AlKhair
The journey began long before Wesal AlKhair officially opened its doors. Latifa’s passion for horse therapy started back in 2009 when she volunteered at a local program in Jeddah. Watching children move from wheelchairs to saddles, and in some cases, even to walking, left a lasting impression.
Determined to bring this life-changing experience to more people, Latifa trained in the United States and earned certification in therapeutic riding before pursuing her studies in Ireland. When she returned to Saudi Arabia in 2017, she learned that the program she once volunteered with had closed. That’s when she decided to take matters into her own hands.
After five years of challenges, from finding the right horses to navigating regulations and the pandemic, Wesal AlKhair officially came to life in 2021. What started as one woman’s determination to help her community has grown into a recognized center of care and inclusion.
How Wesal AlKhair Works
What sets Wesal AlKhair apart is its personalized approach. Each rider’s experience is designed to meet their specific physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. The team carefully matches horses with riders based on movement and temperament, ensuring a safe and effective session every time.
Every class feels less like a therapy appointment and more like a fun, engaging experience. Riders warm up with stretching, practice balance and coordination, and even play games like basketball while on horseback. Every activity builds strength, confidence, and trust between the rider and the horse.
Who Can Join
Wesal AlKhair welcomes participants aged three and above, regardless of background or prior experience. Joining starts with a simple registration process and medical assessment, often including a free physical check-up from the center’s physiotherapy partners. Some participants may need additional medical clearance, such as x-rays or doctor notes, to ensure safety during sessions.
The program is inclusive, designed for individuals with disabilities, but open to anyone who could benefit from horse-assisted therapy.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Over the years, Wesal AlKhair has witnessed remarkable transformations. Riders have gained physical strength, improved communication, and developed emotional confidence.
One memorable story is that of Ayan, an 18-year-old who began her journey in a wheelchair. After consistent training and guidance, Ayan gradually transitioned from sitting to standing, and eventually walking independently with minimal support. Beyond physical progress, her confidence and ability to express herself grew tremendously.
Then there’s Sara Felemban, a dedicated rider who trained under Latifa and went on to represent Saudi Arabia at the Special Olympics MENA Regional Equestrian Competition in Abu Dhabi, bringing home a gold medal. Her success symbolizes what’s possible with commitment, patience, and the right support.
Building a Community Around Wesal AlKhair
The success of Wesal AlKhair isn’t just about the riders, it’s a total community effort. Volunteers, sponsors, and families all play a key role in keeping the program strong. Anyone over 15 years old can volunteer, and no prior horse experience is needed.
The center also runs workshops and awareness programs across the Kingdom, helping schools, clinics, and hospitals understand the benefits of equine therapy and its impact on physical and emotional development.
The Heart of the Work
For Latifa, the reward is simple: “It’s the kids’ smiles, hugs, and happiness,” she says. To her, Wesal AlKhair isn’t just about being the first center of its kind, it’s about giving people a chance to grow, move, and experience joy in new ways.
Today, Wesal AlKhair operates with seven certified trainers, an administrative team, and eight incredible horses. Together, they’ve built something remarkable, beneficial and just downright amazing, a movement that’s helping redefine what therapy looks like in Saudi Arabia.
Get Involved
If you’re interested in supporting Wesal AlKhair, whether through volunteering, sponsorship, or joining as a rider, the team is always open to new members.
Visit wesalalkhair.net or contact +966 548534149 to learn more about their programs and how to get involved.
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