CHI Al Shaqab Impressive Equestrian Excellence
Al Shaqab, a truly impressive facility, highlights equestrian excellence in Qatar. The outdoor arena primarily hosts show jumping competitions but also serves as a venue for community events and equestrian education by the Equine Education Department and the Al Shaqab Riding Academy. The semi-shaded Longines outdoor plaza spans an impressive 120 meters by 60 meters. The facility boasts 60 stables with access to sand and fiber training tracks, a washed sand cantor track, shaded arenas, hacking trails, and paddock areas. Additionally, it houses stallions, broodmares, young horses, foaling units, and breeding facilities, totaling 142 stables with accompanying amenities and paddocks. Hydrotherapy and exercise machines are also available.
High-Level Equestrian Center
Al Shaqab aims to be a world-class equestrian center, with a particular focus on the Arabian breed, one of the oldest horse breeds and a significant part of Qatar’s culture and heritage.
His Highness the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, founded Al Shaqab in 1992 to showcase Qatar’s Arabian equine heritage and contribute to preserving and perpetuating the Arabian horse breed.
In honor of his ancestor, Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammed Al Thani, the Father Emir placed the Arabian horse breeding operation at the symbolic site of the Battle of Al Shaqab, where over a century ago, Bedouins fought a crucial battle that led to Qatar’s independence.
Since then, Al Shaqab has evolved into a multidimensional equestrian center. It not only breeds Arabian horses but also educates children in the art and values of horsemanship, trains riders and horses for endurance racing, and long-distance events.
Its existence is built on three fundamental pillars: education, excellence, and heritage, allowing it to be an equestrian center of excellence offering an engaging experience for the community, a place where everyone can celebrate Qatar’s unique heritage and history.
Member of Qatar Foundation
In 2004, Al Shaqab became a member of the Qatar Foundation, providing the Qatari community with opportunities to participate in a wide range of cultural and equestrian activities. In 2006, it embarked on a visionary expansion, developing a world-class equestrian center. Now spread across 980,000 square meters, Al Shaqab is renowned worldwide for its unique horseshoe-shaped architectural design, symbolizing Qatar’s identity.
Qatar Foundation
The Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF) is a non-profit organization supporting Qatar’s journey towards a diversified and sustainable economy. QF serves Qatar’s population and beyond by providing specialized programs within its innovative ecosystem of education, research, and community development.
Founded in 1995 by His Highness the Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, QF aims to provide quality education to Qatar. Today, QF’s world-class educational system offers lifelong learning opportunities from six months to doctoral level, enabling graduates to thrive globally and contribute to the nation’s development.
Facilities
Al Shaqab boasts the Longines Arena, renowned for its unique and modern design, named through collaboration with Longines, the Swiss watch company. The arena, measuring 100 meters by 60 meters, accommodates 6,000 seats within its air-conditioned premises.
Located in the beautiful Al Shaqab Equestrian Park in Education City, the Marwan Club – managed by AMLAK Holding – inspires its members with state-of-the-art facilities in a tranquil environment. The club offers privacy and exclusivity, providing members with a serene oasis away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Members can enjoy personal training sessions, fitness classes, and personalized attention from a highly dedicated team. Children can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities at the Kids Zone, while adults can spend their time alone in the gym, dining at the restaurant, or lounging by the pool. Ladies have dedicated timings during the week. Private memberships are available for individuals, couples, and families.
The Equine Veterinary Medical Center (EVMC) is Al Shaqab’s equine hospital, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Dedicated to veterinary care excellence and scientific discovery, EVMC offers emergency services 24/7 and has three specialized surgical theaters.
In conclusion, Al Shaqab stands as a beacon of equestrian excellence, embodying Qatar’s rich heritage and commitment to preserving the Arabian horse breed. Its state-of-the-art facilities, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives make it a truly world-class equestrian center.
Source Press release Al Shaqab | Foto HSJ (c)
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