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Leading veterinary figures and industry experts have been meeting in Riyadh to develop plans for enhancing horse movement across the Gulf region, following the successful Saudi Cup 2025 carnival.
The workshop, which brought together 20 global experts, focused on improving temporary international horse movement in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Jordan and Syria.
Initiated by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the International Horse Sports Confederation (IHSC), the event attracted representatives from veterinary authorities, equestrian federations, and racing bodies.
"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."
The workshop was hosted by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa Center), with support from the Saudi Arabian Equestrian Federation, Saudi Equestrian Authority, and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia.
"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 James Ogilvy, Director of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities.
"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."
Discussion sessions, moderated by FEI Veterinary Director Dr. Göran Åkerström, addressed key topics including challenges to horse movement, equine disease-free zones, African Horse Sickness-free status requirements, and new technological advancements such as the FEI's digital passports.
"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, minimise 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 was the establishment of a working group aimed at fostering ongoing collaboration and ensuring continued progress in enhancing horse movement across the region.
The Riyadh meeting follows an initial 2019 gathering in Rabat, Morocco, where a roadmap for improved horse movement within FEI Group VII was developed, and a subsequent workshop held in Abu Dhabi on 9 February 2024.
Distinguished speakers included 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.