Riyadh Workshop Advances Horse Movement in Gulf Region 

Riyadh recently hosted 20 global experts for a workshop focused on improving temporary international horse movement in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Jordan and Syria. Initiated by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and the International Horse Sports Confederation (IHSC), the event brought together representatives from veterinary authorities, equestrian federations, and racing bodies to explore ways to enhance the efficiency of horse transport for competitions and events across the Gulf region. The IHSC is a collaboration between the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) and International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA). "As demonstrated by the successful examples of major racing and equestrian events, safe horse movement has been, and can continue to be, achieved in the region," said Dr. Jenny Hall, FEI Vice President and Chair of the FEI Veterinary Committee, in her opening remarks. "However, to truly advance equestrian sports and their associated industries, we must ensure the efficient movement of horses at all levels, particularly through safe and reliable road transportation, which should mirror the successful air transport systems already in place." Hosted by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa Center), sponsored by the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation and Saudi Equestrian Authority, and supported by the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, the workshop was held in Riyadh following the successful Saudi Cup 2025 carnival. "Achieving efficient and effective horse movement within the Gulf region, and in and out of the region, is the foundation to the success of racing and equestrian events being held here, for example the Saudi Cup carnival which currently holds the richest Thoroughbred race in the world," said Mr. James Ogilvy, Director of the IFHA. "It is therefore significantly important to not only identify the challenges on movement of horses currently faced by the industry, but to discuss and formulate agreed action plan to enhance the current horse movement system in the region." In the discussion sessions, moderated by FEI Veterinary Director Dr. Göran Åkerström, the group addressed the following key topics: The challenges to horse movement in the subregion and explored potential solutions; The establishment and application of an Equine Disease-Free Zone; The requirements for maintaining African Horse Sickness-free status; An examination of the current GCC health certificate for temporary horse movement, as well as the status of infectious diseases globally and within the region; New technological advancements, including the FEI's digital passports, that could improve the movement of horses. "The Gulf region is rapidly becoming a central hub for international equestrian sport, making it was vital that we brought together the experts to address the critical need for safe and efficient cross-border transportation of horses," Åkerström said. "As stewards of their wellbeing, we must take full responsibility for improving horse movement in order to reduce their stress, minimize their health risks, and ensure they receive the highest standard of care throughout their journey. "These efforts are fundamental not just to the welfare of the horses but also to their success as equine athletes. Just as with human athletes, efficient transportation is crucial to enabling them to perform at their best and continue to thrive in the world of global equestrian sport." A key outcome of the event was the decision to establish a working group aimed at fostering ongoing collaboration and ensuring continued progress in enhancing horse movement across the region. It followed an initial meeting in 2019 in Rabat, Morocco, where a roadmap for improved horse movement within FEI Group VII was developed. A subsequent workshop, held in Abu Dhabi on 9 February 2024, focused specifically on the Gulf region, which has become an increasingly influential hub for international horseracing and equestrian sports. Workshop participants also had the opportunity to hear from several distinguished speakers, including Mr. Sultan Al Yehyaee, representative of the UAE National Federation, FEI Board Member, and Chair of FEI Group VII; Dr. Ahmad Al Majali, WOAH Regional Representative for the Middle East; and Dr. Sanad Al Harbi, WOAH Delegate for Saudi Arabia.