In a move that places the UAE alongside a select group of nations dedicated to the legacy of classical horsemanship, a new equestrian institution—Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA)—will officially open its doors in November 2025 on Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi. The initiative comes under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.Spanning 65,000 square metres, ADREA will become the fifth school of its kind globally, joining historic peers in Austria, Spain, Portugal, and France. Designed as a fully immersive environment for learning, performance, and preservation of haute école—the classical tradition of high-level equestrian art—the facility represents a significant cultural and educational investment for the region.
UAE joins global circle of classical horsemanship
ADREA’s establishment is notable not only for its ambition but also for its place in a rarefied global tradition. Until now, only four countries in the world—Austria, Spain, Portugal, and France—have hosted schools exclusively dedicated to the art of classical riding. ADREA marks the first such institution outside of Europe, positioning Abu Dhabi as a centre for equestrian excellence in the Middle East and beyond.This new addition reflects a long-standing regional reverence for horsemanship, blending modern technology with centuries-old practices. The school’s physical footprint and program offerings aim to uphold the discipline, elegance, and artistry central to classical equestrian values.
UAE’s ADREA: A facility built around Horses
At the heart of ADREA’s mission is a horse-first philosophy, a guiding principle that influences everything from architectural design to daily operations. The campus will feature:
- A climate-controlled indoor arena with a seating capacity of 1,200, allowing year-round training and public performances.
- 60 air-conditioned stables, each fitted with advanced monitoring systems to ensure optimal care.
- A full veterinary clinic and rehabilitation centre to support equine health.
- Training arenas and shaded riding tracks, designed to provide a comfortable environment for both horses and riders in the UAE climate.
The design emphasises comfort, harmony, and well-being, promoting strong relationships between riders and their horses. The entire facility is tailored to nurture the refined balance, discipline, and physical excellence that classical horsemanship demands.
UAE as a custodian of equestrian heritage
Beyond its technical and sporting aspects, ADREA aims to become a centre for cultural preservation and knowledge transmission. Among its key cultural assets:
- The Furussiya Gallery, which will showcase a carefully curated collection of rare artefacts, highlighting the evolution and influence of horsemanship across various civilisations and centuries.
- One of the world’s most extensive equestrian libraries, featuring over 10,000 volumes dedicated to the study and celebration of equestrian history, techniques, and philosophy.
- The UAE’s first saddle-making atelier, dedicated to reviving traditional craftsmanship while advancing it through modern techniques.
These spaces have been conceived not just for exhibition but for education and inspiration, allowing new generations to engage deeply with the rich heritage of equestrian arts.
UAE’s ADREA to offer structured, inclusive education
Education stands at the core of ADREA’s vision. The school will offer a complete academic and practical training pathway, beginning with the Junior Academy and culminating in a comprehensive four-year Rider Degree programme. This structured curriculum is designed to support students through every stage of their development.Importantly, the school will also welcome Children of Determination, ensuring that inclusivity remains central to its mission. All programmes are accredited and built to nurture not just technical skills but also the values of perseverance, discipline, and grace that define classical horsemanship.
