Few sights evoke elegance quite like the majestic gallop of a thoroughbred horse. Equestrian – a sport originally developed to train Greek horses for battle – has long been associated with the lauded gentry of Europe’s elite social circles. Today, however, the sport has broadened its appeal without losing its air of exclusivity, attracting discerning riders worldwide. With Abu Dhabi welcoming an increasing number of international residents in recent years, the city’s equestrian culture has flourished, giving rise to a selection of exclusive clubs across the capital. Read on to discover the finest equestrian clubs in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club (ADEC)
Almost half a century old, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club boasts almost as much history as it does prestige.
The club offers tailored programmes for riders of all levels who wish to harness their potential, and is also approved by the British Horse Society (BHS) – ideal if you are just beginning your equestrian journey or are an experienced horseman. ADEC employs qualified BHS coaches to ensure expertise, who teach everything from the fundamentals of the sport, right through to advanced jumping and dressage techniques.
Each individual rider is assessed, and a tailored programme can be designed to ensure progress. Lessons are conducted in private, semi-private or group settings, while Pony Camps are also available for younger riders.
ADEC is equipped to host a range of events throughout the season, welcoming champion riders from around the world in the past few years. The club also features 4* and 5* show jumping events, while mounted and unmounted equine-assisted therapy sessions provide one of the facility’s unique selling points. These workshops are designed primarily for children and young adults with conditions such as autism, or developmental, emotional or behavioural issues. 45-minute sessions are specifically tailored to each individual, with the overall theme of encouraging emotional skills such as empathy and responsibility.
Mandara Equestrian Club
Accredited by the Federation Francaise d’Equitation, Mandara offers a range of services, including an elite riding school, as well as stabling facilities and transportation.
The club is a family-run establishment, which adds to the charm coursing through it, offering tailored riding lessons for both children and adults. Health and well-being of the animals is a key feature of Mandara, as certified experts are on hand to ensure the needs of the horses are effectively met. Air-conditioned, German-designed stables also ensure year-round safety for these well-treated steeds.
Whether you are new to riding or bring a wealth of experience to the saddle, Mandara Equestrian Club has everything you need to prosper, including calm, well-trained horses and impressive facilities such as the air-conditioned indoor arena – a key selling point during the immense heat of the Abu Dhabi summer. For those who are unsure of their level, the facility offers a 30-minute placement class. An inclusive facility, Mandara also offers classes for children with special needs.
Transportation services are available around the clock, ensuring your horse travels in complete comfort. Fully air-conditioned vehicles provide smooth, stress-free journeys, designed with both your peace of mind and your horse’s wellbeing in mind.
Dhabian Equestrian Club
The premier location in the emirate for rejuvenation and equine connection, Dhabian stands as a facility dedicated to excellence and a passion for horses.
The centre began life as a horse rescue centre back in 2007, but has since evolved into a bustling stables and equestrian community, where people and horses can come together in a safe environment. A haven for mistreated animals, Dhabian has featured in multiple press outlets over the years, highlighting the impressive work they do on behalf of our equine friends.
An all-encompassing facility, daily riding lessons are available from age 3 and up, while guests have the opportunity to book either a private or group lesson. For those looking to become a professionally certified equestrian, Dhabian is the UAE’s exclusive provider of ACTVET Certified and Accredited training programs.
The complex also boasts two spacious arenas, in addition to abundant training, competition and recreational riding spaces. With conveniently located stables just seconds from stretches of shimmering coastline and the expanse of the desert, serene treks on your mount are a central aspect of this facility.
Emirates International Endurance Village (EIEV)
Out in the Al Wathba desert, the Emirates International Endurance Village stands as a place where endurance meets adventure. This outstanding equestrian facility boasts a whole host of seasonal events, such as the Emirates Arabian Horses Cup and the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Mansoor Bin Zayed Al Nahyan for Private Owners. These events are long rides – often more than 100km – designed for seasoned riders, showcasing the very best of Arabian horses.
H.E. Musallam Salem Al Ameri, General Manager of Emirates International Endurance Village, explains that the facility is based on the belief that equestrian plays a pivotal role in deepening national belonging and consolidating national identity. As a link to the past and a way to preserve the heritage of the nation's founding fathers, EIEV promotes excellence, innovation, and sustainable development, and is seen as culturally significant.
With a comprehensive horse welfare policy that ensures events do not take place during periods of extreme weather, every care is taken to ensure the safety of both horse and rider.
This facility is aimed at those with a background in equestrian and does not offer lessons, so for those with limited experience, it is a good idea to use Emirates International Endurance Village as an aspirational destination, first focusing on the basics and then, when sufficiently prepared, the competitive aspect of equestrian.
The Royal Stables
This tranquil oasis in the middle of the city offers a comprehensive range of equestrian classes and services. Surrounded by verdant greenery, the facility provides the opportunity to connect with both nature and animal across all ability levels.
Animals are well trained and well cared for, meaning calm, gentle horses are a hallmark of the stables. There is also a wide array of breeds for members to get acquainted with, from Shetland Ponies to tall warmbloods, each of which has been carefully selected from abroad for their temperament. Upon arrival, the horses go through a specific training regime to prepare them for beginner, intermediate or advanced classes, depending on their attributes, before being introduced to the school and students.
With an indoor arena and an outdoor area, the facility also boasts a large jumping arena, as well as a 60m x 20m dressage arena. A unique 1.2km Forest Trail is another defining characteristic of this exceptional facility.
An all-encompassing complex, The Royal Stables also affords access to stables, paddocks, a vet and even a farrier.
Whatever your level of equestrian expertise, there is something for everyone in Abu Dhabi. From beginner's classes in tranquil surroundings to the more advanced endurance races in the desert, the city’s equestrian scene is not only growing but approaching a full gallop.
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