The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Emirates Arabian Horse Society are preparing to represent the United Arab Emirates at the 16th edition of the El Jadida Horse Show in Morocco. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place from 30 September to 5 October 2025, bringing together equestrian enthusiasts, breeders, riders, and heritage experts from across the world.

The UAE pavilion will serve as a central platform, presenting both the nation’s rich equestrian tradition and its cultural heritage. This participation underlines the UAE’s prominent role in preserving the purebred Arabian horse, which holds a deep historical and cultural significance in Emirati society. Visitors to the pavilion will be introduced to the history, achievements, and traditions associated with Arabian horses, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to safeguarding this iconic aspect of national heritage.

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Showcasing Arabian Horses and Emirati Heritage

The pavilion will be designed to offer an immersive experience for the public, combining educational exhibits, interactive sessions, and live demonstrations. The Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Emirates Arabian Horse Society will lead this initiative, providing detailed insights into the care, breeding, and preservation of purebred Arabian horses.

Apart from the equestrian focus, the pavilion will feature traditional crafts linked to horse culture. Artisans will demonstrate age-old skills such as saddle-making, leatherwork, and other craft forms that have been passed down through generations. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the fusion of art and heritage that has historically surrounded Arabian horses, emphasizing the UAE’s ongoing dedication to cultural preservation.

The pavilion will also host a wide range of heritage activities and events. These include traditional music and dance performances, storytelling sessions, and exhibitions that showcase Emirati photography and videos documenting equestrian culture. Through these activities, the UAE aims to present a comprehensive view of its intangible cultural heritage, encouraging cultural exchange with Moroccan audiences and international visitors.

Cultural and Educational Activities

One of the highlights of the UAE pavilion will be the focus on intangible cultural heritage. Dedicated spaces will be set up to display traditional knowledge, customs, and practices related to horses and Emirati life. Visitors can participate in competitions, view exhibitions, and engage in educational programs that explain the importance of horses in Arab history and culture.

In addition to these activities, several public and private organisations from the UAE will contribute to the pavilion’s offerings. Their involvement will help promote national identity, uphold Emirati values, and present the country’s cultural traditions on an international stage. By collaborating with these organisations, the UAE ensures that the pavilion becomes a space for authentic cultural representation, highlighting the country’s achievements in heritage conservation and education.

UAE Arabian Horse Studbook and Key Initiatives

The UAE pavilion will also draw attention to the Arabian Horse Studbook, which documents the lineage, registration, and pedigree of purebred Arabian horses. This Studbook is a key instrument in maintaining the quality and authenticity of the breed, reflecting the UAE’s dedication to equine excellence.

Visitors will learn about various services, initiatives, and events led by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Emirates Arabian Horse Society. These include the UAE World Cup for Arabian Horse Beauty, which showcases the finest horses and promotes international recognition of Emirati equestrian standards. The pavilion will also highlight educational and heritage-focused programs aimed at raising awareness about horse culture among young audiences and the general public.

Launch of a Unique Poetry Competition

For the first time, the UAE entities are introducing a Poetry Competition about Horses exclusively for Moroccan poets. This competition will accept entries in classical Arabic poetry, including both traditional metered and rhymed verse and free verse.

The competition is designed to celebrate the horse’s central role in Arab heritage and inspire poets to express their personal reflections on the relationship between humans and horses. By doing so, the UAE aims to reinforce the cultural bond between equestrianism and Arab identity. This initiative highlights the deep respect and admiration that Emirati society holds for Arabian horses and seeks to share this appreciation with the Moroccan public and the broader international community.

El Jadida Horse Show: A Premier Equestrian Event

Since its inception in 2008, the El Jadida Horse Show has grown into a leading platform for equestrian networking, knowledge exchange, and cultural promotion. The event attracts breeders, riders, artisans, researchers, institutions, sponsors, and exhibitors from around the world.

The horse show has become a hub for sharing expertise and innovations in equestrianism while also promoting cultural heritage linked to horses. Through its participation, the UAE contributes to this global dialogue, sharing its knowledge, traditions, and experiences with an international audience. The show not only celebrates equestrian achievements but also underscores the cultural and social significance of horses across Arab societies.

Strengthening International Collaboration

The UAE pavilion at the El Jadida Horse Show will foster stronger international collaboration in heritage and equestrian fields. By engaging with Moroccan and international visitors, the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Emirates Arabian Horse Society aim to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for traditional equestrian arts.

Through interactive exhibits, educational programs, competitions, and performances, the UAE pavilion will demonstrate how equestrianism and cultural heritage are intertwined. This participation also emphasizes the UAE’s leadership role in safeguarding Arabian horses and nurturing global interest in this iconic breed.

The UAE’s participation in the 16th El Jadida Horse Show marks a significant effort to highlight the country’s equestrian achievements and cultural heritage. With a carefully curated pavilion, engaging activities, traditional performances, and innovative programs like the Poetry Competition about Horses, the UAE will offer a rich and immersive experience for all visitors.

This initiative reinforces the UAE’s commitment to preserving the purebred Arabian horse, promoting Emirati values, and sharing the nation’s heritage with the world. By combining education, tradition, and cultural pride, the UAE pavilion at the El Jadida Horse Show 2025 promises to leave a lasting impression on both local and international audiences.