Known all over the world for its beauty and elegance, the Arabian horse has played a huge part in Arab life and civilisation, which gives it a special place in modern-day culture and sports.
Origin
Its beginnings may very well be hidden in the desert sands. Experts theorise that the area north of the Fertile Crescent running along the Euphates, across Sinai and along Egypt’s coast, offered a mild climate and enough rain for an ideal environment for horses. Other historians suggest the breed originated southwest of Arabia, with the three great river beds providing natural wild pastures.
Bedouin’s pride
The original breeders, the Bedouin sometimes kept prized horses in their own tents for shelter and protection from theft. They used them as war mounts and beasts of burden.
Temperament
Centuries of close association with humans have given the Arabians a friendly and loyal disposition. Some say they are the most intelligent breed, quick to comprehend, alert and sociable. They are suitable for riders at all levels but, like any other horse, they can become excessively nervous when treated badly.
Ancient war horse
Conflicts and invasions have seen the Arabian horse as part of many wars.
A portion of the painting Battle of Higueruela of Sultan Mohammad IX of Granada in 1431. The Arabian’s high-carried tail identifies it from other horses in the painting.
Coat Colours
Bay is the most common colour, followed by grey, and then chestnut. Black is somewhat rare. True roan may not actually exist; it could simply be a manifestation of the sabino or rabicano genes.
Speed and endurance
Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses may be faster over short distances but they are mostly spent after a mile. Races became breed-specific partly because non-Arabian owners didn’t want to run against the horse that ‘drinks the wind’.
Arabians dominate endurance racing. Besides great stamina and energy, they are able to carry weight with speed and recover quickly. The best Arabian can finish 100-mile races in less than 10 hours.
Lines from the poem The Bedouin, in admiration of the Arabian horse
“Its long neck, its light hair comforting the weary, young and old.
My soul soars like a bird, relaxing my being, alighting from the cold.”
H.H Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.