Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club's Therapeutic Riding Program Builds Confidence and Well-being

In the heart of Abu Dhabi's city center, the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club's stables offer a tranquil escape. Here, the rhythmic sound of horses' hooves provides a calming effect, a sanctuary from daily stresses. This serene environment is now home to a new therapeutic riding program utilizing horses to foster confidence and enhance the well-being of children, people of determination, and senior citizens.

Launched at the end of September, the initiative has already welcomed 45 participants. It aims to leverage the profound connection between humans and horses to support vulnerable members of the community. Funded and supported by Mubadala Investment Company and the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, the program provides a safe and calm setting for participants to engage with horses. Activities are carefully designed to build self-assurance and encourage social interaction.

Dayle Brown, chief sports and equestrian officer of Al Khail Square, highlighted the program's benefits: "The programme will give people of determination, vulnerable children and elderly citizens the opportunity to learn about horses." She added, "Horses are very intelligent, they're very used to working around people and relating to people where there is a need. It's well known around the world."

Therapeutic riding instructor Faye Galvin, who brought three horses from Ireland, has personally witnessed the transformative impact of equine interaction. "Horses have been a big part of my life, and working in different elements of care and with children and seeing the difference that horses can make to people’s lives and the connection is beautiful," Ms Galvin shared. "To bring the two together is the dream job."

The program has already shown promising results, as seen with Ghaith, a 7-year-old boy who became non-verbal at the age of two. His uncle, Faisal Alsuwaidi, shared their journey: "He was talking, playing with us. Sometimes you will see him looking at the sky, looking at things and thinking. We want him to continue this thinking, and say what is inside his mind; we try our hardest to push him to talk." The family has explored various avenues to help Ghaith regain his voice, including farm animals and specialized schooling. Mr. Alsuwaidi noted Ghaith's eagerness for the twice-weekly sessions and the progress observed, which has brought renewed hope. Ghaith appeared at ease on the horse, his demeanor visibly improving when he mounted Doolin. "We try to let him have lots of contact with the animals, and we try to improve his motivation to talk to anyone. Today he tried with the horse to push him to move forward," he added.

Ms. Galvin's three ponies, accustomed to Ireland's lush fields, are adapting to Abu Dhabi's desert climate. "They've been out in a big field in Ireland, so it's quite a contrast coming to Abu Dhabi," she explained. "We've had to get them desensitised, because when you're working in the therapeutic environment, there's a lot of different variables and different sounds, which takes time."

Each riding session is personalized, incorporating games, coordination and balance exercises, and activities to enhance motor skills. Ms. Galvin emphasized the horses' empathetic nature: "They are very spiritual, empathetic and sensitive, so they can connect with people in so many ways." She further elaborated on the physical benefits: "Their gait mirrors that of a human, so for people with physical disabilities, it can be very good for their whole physical development as well, and it gives them that feeling and experience." The program is also seeking volunteers in addition to participants.