The Emirates Arabian Horse Society forges deeper ties with Italy to advance breed preservation

A landmark agreement signed in Verona strengthens international collaboration on Arabian horse expertise, digital innovation and pedigree research, positioning the UAE as a custodian of this cherished heritage.

In the storied halls of Verona’s Fieracavalli exhibition, a quiet yet significant moment unfolded as Mohamed Ahmed Al Harbi, Director-General of the Emirates Arabian Horse Society, and Dr. Francesco Santoro, President of the Italian Arabian Horse Association, signed a Memorandum of Understanding that reflects a shared commitment to advancing the knowledge and stewardship of purebred Arabian horses.

The agreement establishes a framework for substantive cooperation between two organisations dedicated to preserving and promoting one of humanity’s most treasured equine bloodlines. Through structured exchange of expertise, information and scholarly research on Arabian horses and their origins, both parties now benefit from accumulated findings that span centuries of breeding knowledge and contemporary scientific understanding. The partnership extends to the technical realm of horse registration and pedigree documentation, creating a vital link between the two registries that will enhance bloodline and pedigree research across borders.

A particularly forward-looking dimension of this collaboration involves digital innovation. The MoU encompasses cooperation on electronic services, with both organisations committed to sharing expertise in digital systems that align with international best practices and strengthen operational efficiency. This commitment to technological advancement found immediate expression at the Verona Arabian Horse Championship, where the Rabdan digital judging system, developed by EAHS, was implemented. The electronic platform enhances both the precision of competitive results and the transparency of judging procedures, demonstrating how technological solutions can elevate standards across the sector while serving the interests of owners and breeders.

The partnership sits within a broader strategic vision. EAHS has pursued an intentional expansion of international relationships with organisations and institutions devoted to Arabian horses, recognising that advancement of the breed depends upon collaborative effort, shared learning and coordinated application of innovation. These efforts contribute directly to developing services and programmes related to championships, registration and documentation, while promoting the sustainability of the sector and applying the latest technologies to serve stakeholders worldwide.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The agreement reinforces the UAE’s established position as a leading global supporter of purebred Arabian horses and custodian of their rich heritage. By deepening ties with international partners, Abu Dhabi strengthens its role in advancing breed standards, preservation practices and knowledge sharing on a world stage, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to maintaining excellence across all dimensions of Arabian horse stewardship.

For Abu Dhabi’s community of owners and breeders, the partnership creates tangible benefits through enhanced digital services, access to international expertise, and participation in collaborative research programmes. The implementation of systems such as Rabdan at international championships demonstrates how the Society’s innovations benefit the global Arabian horse community while elevating the reputation and competitiveness of UAE-based breeding programmes.