Best Equestrian Academies in Abu Dhabi
Discover leading equestrian academies in Abu Dhabi that offer professional training for beginners and experienced riders.
Words by Nikolett Vilmos in Lifestyle · Sep 1st, 2026
Abu Dhabi has a strong horse-riding culture, supported by established clubs, certified schools and modern equestrian centres. For beginners, families and experienced riders, respected academies offer safe training and quality facilities. Leading choices include Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, The Royal Stables, Al Forsan Equestrian Centre and Academy, Dhabian Equestrian Club, and Mandara Equestrian Club. Each has a different focus, from basic lessons to advanced sport, horse care and formal training.
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club
Based in Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club is an established riding centre. Its Riding School is BHS approved, with qualified coaches and lessons from beginner to competition level. Training covers dressage and show jumping, while private, semi-private and group formats suit different riders. Children can start structured lessons from age six, with pony sessions for younger riders. The club also hosts racing and show jumping events, giving riders a strong setting for skill development.
Tailored Riding Options
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BHS-approved coaching
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Dressage and jumping
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Flexible lesson formats
The Royal Stables
Founded in 1969, The Royal Stables in Al Mushrif offers lessons for riders at different stages. Beginners start with private or semi-private classes, while novice, intermediate and advanced riders can join group sessions. Horses are selected for specific rider levels. Students can also learn grooming, handling, horse health, stable care and riding theory. BHS Challenge Awards offer a formal development route, while horse leasing gives experienced riders regular access to a suitable horse.
Learn Beyond Riding
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Gentle school horses
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Private beginner lessons
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Horse care education
Al Forsan Equestrian Centre and Academy
Al Forsan Equestrian Centre and Academy in Khalifa City is a BHS Approved Riding School, livery yard and FEI-accredited training centre. It teaches beginners, intermediate riders and advanced students in dressage and show jumping. The centre has 165 air-conditioned stables and an air-conditioned indoor arena, which allow lessons throughout the year. Its horse range includes hand-led ponies for children and advanced show-jumping horses. This makes Al Forsan suitable for families and serious riders.
Built For Progress
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FEI-accredited facility
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165 air-conditioned stables
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Year-round riding
Dhabian Equestrian Club
Dhabian Equestrian Club in Al Samhah offers programmes for children and adults, with lessons based on walk, trot, canter, transitions, circles, and pole work. Riders can progress through proficiency levels, while experienced students can choose jumping and dressage. The club also provides private and group lessons, pony rides, desert rides, and ACTVET-certified training. Its broad programme suits leisure riders, families and students who want a structured path toward stronger skills and formal education.
Practical Equestrian Learning
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Family-friendly programmes
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Jumping and dressage
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Certified training paths
Mandara Equestrian Club
Mandara Equestrian Club in Al Rahba provides tailored lessons for children and adults, from beginner to advanced levels. Certified trainers focus on safe riding, strong technique and horse welfare. The club has several arenas, including a large indoor, air-conditioned arena for hot-weather lessons. The club also offers special ladies’ classes and programmes for riders with special needs. Its family focus, care standards and location between Abu Dhabi and Dubai make it a practical choice.
Family-Focused Training
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Beginner to advanced
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Indoor riding arena
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Inclusive programmes
Conclusion
These academies stand out for their qualified coaches, specialist facilities, horse welfare standards and broad range of riding programmes. Their presence also adds recreation and lifestyle value to nearby areas, which can support residential demand and appeal for buyers seeking family-focused amenities. However, property prices depend on several factors, including supply, connectivity, home quality and overall market conditions.
FAQ
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The leading options include Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, The Royal Stables, Al Forsan, Dhabian Equestrian Club and Mandara Equestrian Club.
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Yes. Several Abu Dhabi riding schools offer children’s lessons, pony sessions and structured programmes designed to build confidence and basic riding skills.
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Yes. Al Forsan and Mandara provide air-conditioned indoor arenas, while Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club also offers an indoor arena during hot summer periods.