RIYADH: Saudi Arabia ranks among the major countries who value the sport of horseback riding and has been acquiring top awards at worldwide championships.
But the Saudi Arabian love and care for Arabian horses is quite unique.
The Arabian breed is known for its elegance, stunning beauty and classic appearance. It is of great importance to equestrian fans worldwide.
The King Abdul Aziz Center for Arabian Equestrian was founded in southern Riyadh, in 1961. It is responsible for the registration of Arabian horses in Saudi Arabia and represents the Kingdom in specialized international competitions.
It is a member of the World Arabian Horse Organization (WAHO), the world body for the preservation, improvement and preservation of Arabian horses.
The center includes horses that belonged to the late King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, as well as other breeds of Arabian horse.
Saudi Arabian horses have garnered many equestrian championships worldwide. Among the top prizes landed are the Platinum World Cup three consecutive times, first in 2012, through Dakarwa, then in 2013 through Bandyrus, and in 2014, Marquis was crowned champion.
While Liane Al-Khalidiya was crowned as champion in the skills category at the Beauty of Arabian Horse World Championships in Paris.