It is well-documented by years of research that the Arabian horse is the most ancient and purebred of all horses in the world. Known for their beauty, strength, speed and intelligence, the Purebred Arabian is easily singled out among thousands of breeds by the horse enthusiast for its distinct movements, form and habits.

Arabian horses lived among the desert tribes of the Arabian Peninsula for thousands of years, bred by the Bedouins as war companions. Because of their breeding in the rough terrains of the desert, Purebred Arabians display great tenacity, surprising strength and incredible endurance.

Even in ancient times, people in distant lands valued the Arabian. The export of Arabian horses to India was a common occurrence as early as 1290 AD, as recorded in the travel diary of Marco Polo and continued until the 19th century.

In Europe during the medieval times, German and Polish breeds possessed many Arabian characteristics, evidence that Poland imported Arabian horses from Syria and other Arabian countries.

The role of Arabian stock in the creation of the Thoroughbred line goes without saying. But it was in the Arabian Peninsula that the horse originated and it is in this land that the animal continues to leave a deep and lasting impression on the culture of the Arab people.

Although the Arabian horse is bred all over the world, the most famous horse facilities for the breed remain in the countries that cradle the Arabian Gulf.

Since ancient times, horses have had a tremendous impact on Arab life. They are not simply considered an asset, but hold a singular status as a source of power, closely bound to the Islamic faith. The Holy Quran contains passages where Allah Himself swears by the horse and advises Muslims to accumulate horses. It is known that the Prophet Mohammed (Peace be Upon Him) told his believers that horses are associated with blessings and welfare.

Soon after the advent of Islam, horse ownership and riding became extremely important, as horsemanship was one of the core skills taught to children by the early followers of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).

Horses have also featured prominently in the Arab arts. Ancient wall drawings and statues of horses by the early Arab people demonstrate that the horse has been loved since early times. Throughout history, Arab artists have been inspired to draw and paint this majestic animal and Arabic literature contains numerous poems describing its notable features, be it speed, colour, natural markings or by relating them to events in which they played a part.

It is recorded that Arabs, who are proud of the origin and ancestry of their horses, know their lineage by heart. Since the Bedouin tribes zealously maintained the purity of the breed, breeding practices were extremely selective. Such horses eventually helped the Arabians become a prized possession throughout the world.

In keeping with this legacy, the United Arab Emirates proudly continues to nurture the value of the Arabian horse in its modern day culture, securing its prominence and heritage.