In the UAE, horsemanship is not measured by speed alone, but by the horse and rider’s endurance, understanding, and ability to make the right decision at the right moment. Here, in the heart of the desert, endurance racing was born as one of the purest forms of equestrian sport, where stamina becomes a language, patience a skill, and harmony a prerequisite for victory.
The desert… the toughest track
Unlike traditional track racing, endurance races take place on open, natural terrain, where the ground alternates between soft sand and hard rock, and temperatures rise, adding an extra challenge.
This environment tests not only the horse but also the expertise of the entire team: the rider, the trainer, and the veterinarian.
Veterinary examination… the true verdict
In Emirati endurance races, there is no finish line without inspection.
The horse undergoes a thorough evaluation at every stage, including:
- heartbeat
- Movement
- Fatigue level:
Any abnormal sign of tiredness means immediate withdrawal from the race, regardless of the position.
Here, the horse’s safety comes first , before any result.
The rider… the mind of the race
The rider in endurance racing is not a speed racer, but a reader of signals.
He knows when to slow down, when to allow the horse to move forward, and when to stop to protect his health.
Rushing might give him a temporary advantage, but it often eliminates him before the finish line.
The horse… a character, not a number
Every horse has its own temperament.
Some excel at long, calm stages, while others require careful energy management.
In the UAE, endurance horses are trained to:
- Mental endurance before physical endurance
- Relying on routine
- Respond with trust, not harsh orders.
Why is the UAE leading the world in endurance racing?
- Professional organization with international standards
- Specialized infrastructure
- Long accumulated experience in breeding and training horses
- Clear respect for the horse as a living being and not a racing machine
These factors have made Emirati endurance races a global benchmark and a destination for riders from different countries.
