RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – November 16, 2025 – Media representatives in Riyadh held a special ceremony to honor two leading entities in the Saudi equestrian world: Al-Gharraa Equestrian Center and Al-Sarim Al-Battar Endurance Academy, celebrating their recent accomplishments on both the national and international stage.
The event served to recognize Al-Gharraa Equestrian Center for achieving the prestigious Grade (A) classification from the Saudi Equestrian Federation. This designation solidifies Al-Gharraa’s status as one of the most prominent and largest specialized centers in the Kingdom, equipped with world-class facilities capable of hosting major global championships, positioning it at the forefront of regional equestrian venues.
The media also paid tribute to Al-Sarim Al-Battar Endurance Academy for its impressive international achievement at the recent Spanish Championship. During the competition, Rider Magica delivered excellent results, and Saudi International Rider Mohammed Al-Muhallasi secured a commendable fourth place overall.
A Celebration of Equestrian Culture
The celebratory event took place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the headquarters of Al-Gharraa Center, located south of Riyadh on Al-Kharj Road. Attendees included a selection of elite journalists, investors in the equestrian sector, enthusiasts of the sport, and prominent social media figures.
The program featured thrilling show jumping exhibitions and a display of endurance horses. A highlight of the ceremony was a special, first-ever showcase of the most famous breeds of purebred Arabian horses within Al-Gharraa’s arenas.
Leadership Commends Partnership and Vision
Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Hassoun, Chief Executive Officer of Al-Gharraa Center, expressed his sincere appreciation for the media’s tribute, emphasizing that their presence reflects the significant interest in equestrian sport as a globally recognized activity.
“We dedicate this achievement to all lovers of horsemanship,” said Al-Hassoun. “We thank the media representatives for their considerable support and focus on Al-Gharraa Center and the international events we have successfully delivered recently.”
He highlighted the center’s world-class infrastructure: spanning over 300,000 square meters and housing more than 100 horses, it includes advanced training arenas, high-quality stabling facilities, vast green spaces, an elite team of trainers and grooms, and a specialized veterinary center.
Dr. Hatem Hassanein, International Judge and Chairman of Al-Sarim Al-Battar Academy, affirmed that the media honor represents “a crown and great support” for both the Academy and Al-Gharraa Center.
“The strong media turnout demonstrates precise follow-up on everything happening in the world of equestrianism,” Dr. Hassanein stated. He credited the strategic partnership between the Academy and Al-Gharraa for the fruitful outcomes achieved over the past years, noting that the Academy launched several distinguished programs, including the “Making International Female Riders from Zero to Global Standards” program, which has led to multiple endurance racing achievements. “We are currently preparing a professional women’s team for upcoming endurance championships next season,” he added.
Mr. Ali bin Othman Al-Hassoun, Administrative and Financial Director of Al-Gharraa Center, concluded by stating the center’s ambition to become the primary reference point for equestrian and horse enthusiasts in the Kingdom and the region. He pointed to the high turnout during the current winter season as evidence of growing confidence in the center’s programs and services.
He also announced that the center is currently preparing to organize and host the largest show jumping championship in early 2026, continuing its journey towards global recognition and solidifying its position as one of the most important equestrian destinations in the Middle East.
