Abu Dhabi locals, particularly the ruling family and the sheikhs, have a long and passionate relationship with the stunning Arabian horse. The ancient Arabian horses were remarkably trained by their Bedouin masters as war horses due to their intelligence and outstanding stamina, while at the same time possessing an undisputed reputation for beauty and gentle demeanour towards people.

A visit to the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club at the Mushrif area (near the Al Mushrif Palace), about 10 minutes off Abu Dhabi city centre, gives visitors a glimpse of the outstanding role played by horses in the local heritage and sporting culture. The ADEC is a sprawling haven for horses, equestrians of all races and skill levels, and horse-races. World class facilities including well appointed, spacious and air-conditioned barns and a 70-metre equine swimming pool are located at the club. Even non-riding guests and visitors can enjoy ADEC’s world class facilities such as tennis courts, swimming pools and a golf course.

Horse-races are held regularly in Abu Dhabi, with The HH President’s Cup, the National Day Cup and the Championship Cup amongst the most popular races each year. Show jumping competitions are also held at the ADEC regularly. The ADEC has a 2,000-metre training track on the inside of the racecourse and more than 250 air-conditioned stalls for stabling racehorses as well as privately-owned horses. The ADEC Riding School also boasts over 90 horses as well as highly qualified riding instructors that can train novice to advanced equestrian riders.

In addition, the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation organises an annual Endurance race where participants compete over distances of up to 160 kilometres. The first modern Endurance race was held in 1993 and the organisers never looked back since. The annual Endurance race enlists members of the ruling and royal families, alongside a number of UAE nationals, resident expat riders and even visiting riders from abroad. The Endurance season in Abu Dhabi normally starts in November until May the following year.

Check the websites of the Emirates Racing Authority (www.emiratesracing.com) and UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation (www.uaeequafed.ae) for the schedule of racing, show jumping and Endurance events in Abu Dhabi.