In Saudi Arabia, the horse is an integral part of both culture and sport. The country has become a major force in competitive riding, particularly show jumping, thanks to riders like Abdullah Al-Sharbatly, who have won several Olympic medals since the beginning of the 21st century.
 Saudi horserider Ramzy Al-Duhami rides Al Capone | |
History
What appear to be bridle marks discovered in 2011 on a depiction of an equine saw the birth of a theory of horse domestication around 7,000 BC near Abha in the province of Asir.[1] According to Saudi archaeologists, the al-Maqar civilization was highly advanced during the Neolithic period, notably in its craftsmanship and artistic representations, including a metre-high bust of an equine.[2][3] This discovery, which has been widely publicized but given little credence by specialists, requires further serious study.
Investments
The Saudi royal family is particularly active in horse racing.[4] In 2009, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia decided to invest $500 million to build up a national show jumping team.[5] In early 2012, in preparation for the Olympic Games in London, the kingdom purchased world-class show jumping horses.[6]
Culture
Horses are considered respectable in Saudi Arabia, and any public mistreatment of this animal arouses indignation.[7] On the other hand, women's access to horse riding is highly restricted: they can only practice the sport within the confines of an equestrian center. In September 2014, a woman defied this law by riding on the outskirts of Mecca.[8] Although a Saudi woman rider took part in the Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010, the country was nabbed for non-compliance with the Olympic Charter.[9]
In June 2013, the Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh denounced horse statues in the southern province of Jizan as idolatrous. They were then removed or destroyed.[10]
Controversies
Like its neighbors in the Middle East (Dubai and Qatar), Saudi Arabia has been the subject of controversy on the international equestrian scene due to doping scandals.[6]
See also
- Arabian horse
- Saudi Cup, international horse race in Riyadh
- Horses in Iran