Qatar

Al Shaqab, located in Education City as a member of Qatar Foundation since 2004, is Qatar’s state-of-the-art equestrian centre. His Highness Father Amir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, established Al Shaqab in 1992 to build on Qatar’s Arabian horse heritage and to help preserve and perpetuate the Arabian horse breed. In honour of his ancestor, Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammed Al Thani, The Father Emir located the Arabian breeding farm at the landmark Al Shaqab battle site where almost a century prior, in 1893, the Bedouins fought a pivotal battle that led to Qatar's independence. Arabian horses played a very significant role in the battle and were integral to the local culture – which is why the preservation of these animals and their heritage is paramount.