Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts Academy Opens as First Classical Horsemanship Centre Outside Europe
Abu Dhabi – In a milestone for the region’s equestrian heritage, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, recently toured the newly opened Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA) on Jubail Island. As the fifth academy globally dedicated to classical horsemanship and the first outside Europe, ADREA highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence in both cultural and sporting spheres.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled explored the academy’s world-class amenities. The tour included the Furusiyya Gallery, showcasing 173 rare artefacts and artworks that chronicle over 2,000 years of equestrian history, as well as Dar Al Hiraf, the UAE’s inaugural traditional equestrian saddlery workshop. The manège (Performance Hall), where ADREA riders present weekly classical equestrian showcases, and the expansive Equestrian Library—one of the world’s largest with some 14,000 rare books and manuscripts on classical horsemanship—were also highlighted.
Academy representatives briefed Sheikh Khaled on ADREA’s comprehensive academic and training programmes in classical horsemanship, which aim to prepare both professional and junior riders to the highest international standards. The Junior programmes introduce youth to the timeless principles, ethics, and values associated with horsemanship.
Sheikh Khaled underscored the significance of this new institution, describing Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts as a “significant addition to Abu Dhabi’s cultural and sporting landscape, offering an advanced educational environment that combines global expertise with authentic Emirati traditions in classical horsemanship.” He also praised the academy’s role in “training and developing a new generation of riders, equipping them with technical and academic knowledge that supports efforts to preserve and promote the heritage of classical equestrian arts and strengthen their cultural and sporting presence within the community.”
The visit also included Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Empowerment and Vice Chair of ADREA, Ahmed Jasem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, and Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Office of the Crown Prince.
Speaking on the occasion, Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui stated:
“The support of the leadership is the key pillar behind the success of this landmark cultural project.”
“Sheikh Khaled’s vision to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s status as a global capital of culture and creativity serves as an inspiration to all working in this field.”
“ADREA reflects the UAE leadership’s vision of harmonising Emirati heritage with global excellence, presenting horsemanship as a refined human art that reflects the nation’s values and cultural identity.”
ADREA officially opened its doors to students and visitors in early November 2025, with a high-profile inauguration that brought together classical riding schools from France, Austria, Portugal, and Spain, alongside ADREA’s own riders and horses.
The academy boasts state-of-the-art stables with advanced monitoring systems and specialised air-conditioning, a Junior Riders Academy, both indoor and outdoor arenas, shaded tracks, a veterinary clinic, and a dedicated rehabilitation centre. Visitors can also enjoy on-site cafés and restaurants, blending education, training, and recreation with a modern ambiance that embodies Abu Dhabi’s leadership in classical horsemanship.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
