Abu dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has visited the Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA) on Jubail Island in Abu Dhabi, which is the fifth academy globally dedicated to classical horsemanship and the first outside Europe.
According to Emirates News Agency, during the visit, H.H. toured ADREA's facilities, including the Furusiyya Gallery, featuring 173 rare artefacts and artworks spanning over 2,000 years, and Dar Al Hiraf, the UAE's first saddle-making atelier. The tour also included the man¨ge, hosting weekly classical equestrian showcases, and the Equestrian Library, one of the largest specialised libraries in equestrian arts with around 14,000 rare books and manuscripts.
H.H. was briefed by ADREA representatives on the academic and training programmes offered in classical horsemanship, designed to prepare professional riders to the highest international standards. His Highness also reviewed the academy's Junior programmes, introducing young students to the principles and ethics of horsemanship.
Sheikh Khaled highlighted that Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts significantly adds to Abu Dhabi's cultural and sporting landscape, providing an educational environment that combines global expertise with authentic Emirati traditions in horsemanship. He commended the academy's role in developing a new generation of riders equipped with technical and academic knowledge, supporting efforts to preserve and promote the heritage of classical equestrian arts.
Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Empowerment and Vice Chair of ADREA, remarked, "The support of the leadership is the key pillar behind the success of this landmark cultural project." She added that Sheikh Khaled's vision to reinforce Abu Dhabi's status as a global capital of culture and creativity inspires all working in this field.
During the visit, H.H. was accompanied by Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Ahmed Jasem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, and Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
The academy opened to students and visitors in early November 2025, with an inauguration ceremony featuring performances by leading classical riding schools from France, Austria, Portugal, and Spain, alongside ADREA riders and horses. The academy includes advanced stables, a Junior Riders Academy, training arenas, a veterinary clinic, and a rehabilitation centre, offering an educational and recreational experience.