The Al Shaqab Equestrian Center in Doha is where the world’s top Arabian horses are bred and trained. The Arabian horse plays a vital part in Qatar’s cultural heritage, with myths and legends tied to Muhammad. Visit Al Shaqab for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this purebred animal in the flesh.
Al Shaqab is one of the top equestrian centers in the world. Learn about the center’s rich history. It was built on the site of an important 1893 battle, when Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed led Bedouin tribesmen on Arabian horses against the Ottoman army in an encounter that ultimately led to Qatari independence.
Constructed in the shape of a horseshoe and covering a vast area of more than 240 acres (98 hectares), Al Shaqab today has a variety of world-class facilities for horses. Features include outdoor and indoor arenas, air-conditioned breeding and show stables, spacious paddocks, a horse hospital and a fully equipped exercise center.
Join a guided tour of the impressive facilities and watch the horses being trained, exercised and groomed.
More than 400 horses are looked after at Al Shaqab at any one time. Walk around the exercise center, which includes hydrotherapy pools, a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and treadmills for the horses. Watch as these noble animals swim and exercise. Tour the stables and see how the horses are groomed. Visitors can even get close to the horses for selfies. Let young children have fun on pony rides.
The center’s two huge arenas are used as venues for all kinds of equestrian events. Book tickets for showjumping, dressage, international horse shows and festivals.
Al Shaqab is one of Doha’s most popular tourist attractions. Additional facilities for tourists, including a visitor center and museum, are in planning stages. Guided tours of the center are offered daily but should be booked in advance via the website.
Drive west of Doha to Al Rayyan to reach the Al Shaqab Equestrian Center in 25 minutes. The site is close to Education City. To get here on public transportation, travel by bus or the metro.
