UAE Rider Takes World No. 1 Spot
Emirati endurance star Salem Al Kitbi rises from 12th to first in the FEI World Rankings after an exceptional season of international victories.
The United Arab Emirates has achieved another remarkable milestone in international equestrian sport, with Emirati rider Salem Hamad Saeed Malhoof Al Kitbi claiming the number one position in the FEI Endurance Riders World Ranking for October 2026.
According to the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), Al Kitbi climbed from 12th place to the top of the standings, accumulating 1,316 ranking points and overtaking France’s Melody Theolissat, who holds second place with 1,180 points.
The achievement underlines the UAE’s growing international influence in endurance riding, a discipline deeply connected to the country’s equestrian traditions.
From 12th to World No. 1
Al Kitbi’s rise is particularly impressive considering the demanding nature of international endurance competitions.
Unlike conventional horse racing, endurance requires competitors to navigate distances that can reach 160 kilometres while maintaining their horses’ condition through compulsory veterinary examinations.
The Emirati rider delivered several notable performances throughout 2026, demonstrating consistency across different horses and international venues.
On September 28, Al Kitbi won the CEI3* 160-kilometre competition in Dubai aboard Haleh, adding a prestigious home victory to his season.
Earlier, he finished second in the demanding 160-kilometre event at Florac, France, riding Chicha Des Pacoulis.
These results helped establish his position among the world’s leading endurance athletes.
World Championship Glory With Moheeba
One of Al Kitbi’s greatest achievements came in September at the FEI Endurance World Championship for Young Horses in Barroca d’Alva, Portugal.
Riding the eight-year-old mare Moheeba, he secured individual gold while also contributing to the UAE’s team gold medal.
The 120-kilometre championship tested stamina, preparation, horsemanship and the partnership between horse and rider.
For Moheeba, the victory represented another significant achievement in her developing endurance career.
The mare’s official FEI competition record confirms her September 11 championship success.
A Proud Moment for UAE Endurance
Endurance riding occupies a special place in Emirati sporting culture.
Its origins are closely associated with the desert traditions of the Arabian Peninsula, where horses were valued for their strength, stamina and ability to travel long distances.
Today, the UAE combines this heritage with advanced training facilities, veterinary expertise and internationally recognised competitions.
As previously explored in Al Badia’s feature Endurance Racing in the UAE: From Desert Tradition to Global Championship, the sport has evolved into a major international discipline.
Al Kitbi’s achievement provides another example of that transformation.
The Importance of Horse Welfare
Success in endurance requires far more than speed.
Horses must pass veterinary inspections, and riders must carefully manage pace, hydration and recovery.
These requirements make preparation and welfare central to competitive performance.
The UAE’s expanding equestrian programme also reflects this commitment to developing the sport, as highlighted in the UAE Equestrian Season 2026–2027.
A Champion on the Global Stage
Al Kitbi’s journey to the summit of the October world rankings demonstrates the strength of Emirati endurance riding.
His achievements also reflect the dedication of trainers, veterinarians, grooms and support teams who contribute to every successful competition.
With the international endurance calendar continuing, maintaining the leading position will present another challenge.
For now, the October rankings offer a moment of pride for the UAE and a celebration of a sport that continues to connect Arabian equestrian heritage with international excellence.
