A World Class Equestrian Center
When someone suggested a visit to Al Shaqab, I wasn’t overly thrilled. I tagged along, and was rewarded (undeservedly) with a truly eye-popping experience! Nothing had prepared me for the enormity and world-leading state of the art equestrian center.
Historically, the Arabian horse has of course always played an important part in the region. In 1893, Bedouins on horseback, led by Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, defeated the Ottomans, which marked a first step towards Qatar’s independence. Al Shaqab is named for, and located at the site of this famous battleground.
Our tour began with the inside and outside arenas (huge olympic sized fields), and took us to the air-conditioned stables next. With dropped yaws, we saw first hand how the horses are cared for, pampered and trained. Horse treadmills? Check. Motorized walking pens? Check. Swimming pools? Absolutely, check. Imported oversized Miele washing machines for the horse blankets. But of course.
Next we visited foals and their mothers, and the picturesque original non air conditioned stables of Al Shaqab. When we were leaving the grounds, riding lessons where about to begin, and there was a place where parents could bring their kids for their first pony rides.
>>>A heartfelt shukraan شكرا to the Qatar Tourism Authority and our knowledgeable and amazing guides for 4 unforgettable days in Qatar. #visitqatar @visitqatar #ourqatar
