Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club launches therapeutic riding programme to boost confidence and wellbeing

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club stables in the city centre provide a calm oasis where the rhythmic clip‑clop of hooves helps ease the stress of a busy day.

The club has started a therapeutic riding programme that uses horses to help children, people of determination and older adults gain confidence and improve their overall wellbeing.

The initiative began at the end of September and has already attracted 45 participants, aiming to harness the human‑horse bond to support vulnerable members of the community.

It is financed and backed by Mubadala Investment Company and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, offering a safe, calm setting for interaction with horses and activities designed to build confidence and encourage socialising.

Dayle Brown, chief sports and equestrian officer at Al Khail Square, said: “The programme will give people of determination, vulnerable children and elderly citizens the chance to learn about horses.” He added: “Horses are highly intelligent, accustomed to working with people and responding to needs. This is recognised worldwide.”

Faye Galvin, a therapeutic riding instructor, feels at home at the club. She brought three horses from Ireland this summer, including her mount Ally, and says she has witnessed firsthand how working with horses can make a difference.

She told The National: “Horses have been a big part of my life, and working in various care settings with children has shown me how they can change lives and create a beautiful connection.” She continued: “Combining the two is my dream job.”

The National also spoke with Faisal Alsuwaidi, who brought his seven‑year‑old nephew Ghaith to a session. Ghaith spoke Arabic and English until he was two years old, after which he became non‑verbal.

Mr Alsuwaidi said: “He used to talk and play with us. Sometimes you see him gazing at the sky or at objects, deep in thought. We want him to keep that thinking and express what’s on his mind; we do everything we can to encourage him to speak.”

The family, residing in Ras Al Khaimah, have tried many approaches to help Ghaith regain his voice – from farm animal play to swimming lessons and enrolment in a specialist school.

Mr Alsuwaidi noted that Ghaith looks forward to the twice‑weekly sessions and has shown some progress, giving the family hope. It is evident he feels at ease on the horse – his mood shifts when he mounts Doolin.

He added: “We try to give him plenty of contact with the animals and boost his motivation to talk to anyone. Today he attempted to ask the horse to move forward.”

The three ponies brought from Ireland for the programme needed to adjust to the desert environment.

Faye Galvin explained: “They were used to a large field in Ireland, so coming to Abu Dhabi is a stark change.” She said: “We have had to desensitise them because the therapeutic setting involves many variables and sounds, which takes time.”

Each session is customised to the rider and may include games, coordination or balance work, and exercises that engage motor skills.

The instructor has observed the impact horses can have on people and believes they can connect with anyone.

She remarked: “They are very spiritual, empathetic and sensitive, so they can connect with people in many ways.” She added: “Their gait resembles that of a human, so for people with physical disabilities it can aid overall physical development and give them that feeling and experience.”

Besides session places, the programme is also accepting volunteer applications.

What changes for you

What

Launch of a therapeutic riding programme offering horse‑based sessions for children, people of determination and senior citizens.

From when

Funded and supported by Mubadala Investment Company and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, based at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club.

Who

Children, people of determination, senior citizens (and volunteers) in Abu Dhabi and surrounding areas.

Where

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, city centre.