Emirates Arabian Horse Society Celebrates Inaugural Tsholeeb Competition

The EAHS has crowned the winners of the first leg of its new Tsholeeb competition, honouring riders who demonstrated exceptional skill in this cherished Emirati equestrian tradition.

The Emirates Arabian Horse Society has concluded the inaugural first leg of its Tsholeeb competition, held in Butheeb, Al Khatem, in Abu Dhabi. The event attracted noteworthy participation from both Emirati men and women, reflecting the Society’s commitment to championing traditional activities and safeguarding the cultural heritage intrinsically connected to the purebred Arabian horse.

Overseen by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, the closing ceremony welcomed Mohammed Ahmed Al Harbi, the EAHS Director-General, who presented awards to the leading performers. The ceremony recognised outstanding achievements across both individual and team categories, celebrating the remarkable coordination and horsemanship displayed by participants in this authentic Emirati art form.

Individual and Team Champions

In the male riders’ category, Abdullah Saleh Al Jjniebi secured first place, with Majid Abdullah Al Alawi claiming second and Khalifa Ali Al Darai taking third. The female riders’ category saw Latifa Khalid Al Falasi emerge victorious, followed by Wdeema Yahya Al Katheeri in second and Fatima Eida Al Ameri in third. Team honours went to Butheeb in the male category and Saraya Al Khail in the female category.

Preserving Cultural Excellence

The competition is structured across two legs, with Abu Dhabi hosting the first and Al Dhafra welcoming the second on 27th September, with substantial cash prizes awaiting the winners of each stage. Through this initiative, the Society endeavours to instil the values of cultural and traditional heritage among younger generations, ensuring the continuity of these cherished practices.

Tsholeeb represents one of the UAE’s most authentic traditional arts, performed by skilled riders through improvised poetic verses delivered individually or collectively. The performances follow specific metres and melodies that harmonise elegantly with the movement of the horses, creating a mesmerising display of cultural artistry. By organising this competition, the Emirates Arabian Horse Society contributes meaningfully to reviving this distinguished heritage and strengthening its presence within the community for generations to come.

Source: WAM