The Horse That Rode with the Founder
The Jaziri horse accompanied King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founder of Saudi Arabia, in his unification campaigns beginning in 1902, starting with the recapture of Riyadh, and continuing until the declaration of the Kingdom in 1932. It wasn’t just a mount—it was a symbol of loyalty, patience, and bravery.
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Noble Lineages Reflecting Arab Virtues
The Jaziri horse is known for its noble strains, including:
• Kuhaylah
• Abayyah (named after the founder’s famous mare)
• Saklawiyah
These lineages were passed down by Arabian horsemen. The Jaziri horses are celebrated for endurance, noble character, generosity, and trainability—mirroring the values of the Arab people. They were raised on pride and giving.
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From National Heritage to Global Tourism Experience
Today, the Jaziri horse stands at the center of equestrian tourism in Saudi Arabia. Experiences like free riding take place across diverse terrains—southern mountains, Najdi plains, the Empty Quarter, and the Red Sea coast.
These rides offer a complete cultural journey, from discovering the traits and history of the horses to riding them through Saudi Arabia’s raw and majestic nature.
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Saudi Arabia: A Global Equestrian Destination
Under the guidance of the Saudi Equestrian Federation, the Kingdom hosts top-tier international events, including:
• The Saudi Cup – Riyadh – Launched in 2020: the world’s richest horse race with over $20 million in prizes.
• AlUla Endurance Race – Held during the “Winter at Tantora” festival.
• Abiyya Festival – At King Abdulaziz Racetrack: celebrating the Arabian horse heritage.
• Dirab Equestrian Center – A permanent venue for year-round competitions.
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From Najd to the World: A Global Legacy
Since the early 20th century, Jaziri horses have been gifted to kings, presidents, and breeders in Europe and America, contributing to the development of:
• Thoroughbred lines for speed and endurance.
• Beauty and endurance horses used in global breeding programs.
Notable international breeders who championed the Jaziri lineage include:
• Judy Forbis – Founder of Ansata Stud, a pioneer in preserving Egyptian Arabian lines.
• Michael Bowling – Documented purebred Arabian pedigrees in the West.
• Jillayne Weaver – Produced champions from Jaziri bloodlines.
• Dorothy Whittac – Advocate for Arabian horses in Western circles.
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A Living Heritage, A Bright Future
The Jaziri horse is more than a preserved legacy; it is a living experience—central to Saudi Arabia’s identity, offering the world a gateway to explore authentic Arabian beauty and spirit through equestrian tourism.
Written by Aljawhara Minwer