Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic Riding Programme
Building confidence, wellbeing and meaningful connections through horses
The Therapeutic Riding Programme at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been developed in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, with Mubadala Foundation as the founding partner. Together, we are committed to creating opportunities for selected participants to benefit from the positive impact of therapeutic riding in a safe, inclusive and professionally supported environment.
Designed for selected participants identified through Ma’an and its partner entities, the programme provides structured therapeutic riding sessions in a safe, supportive environment. Through meaningful interactions with horses, participants have the opportunity to build confidence, develop practical skills, improve wellbeing, and enjoy positive new experiences.
What is Therapeutic Riding?
Therapeutic riding uses horse riding and horse care activities to support physical, emotional, cognitive and social development. Each session is tailored to the individual, with activities designed around their abilities, goals and comfort level. Working with horses encourages participants to develop communication, balance, coordination and self-confidence, while enjoying an engaging and rewarding experience.
Beyond the riding itself, spending time with horses can help foster trust, responsibility, emotional awareness and a sense of achievement in a calm and welcoming environment.
About the Programme
Every participant follows a programme designed to meet their individual needs, with guidance from our qualified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and dedicated support team.
Sessions may include:
- Meeting and grooming the horse
- Learning how to safely interact with and care for horses
- Mounted riding activities tailored to individual abilities
- Balance, coordination and communication exercises
- Building confidence through achievable goals and positive experiences
By combining structured activities with the unique connection between horse and rider, the programme supports participants in developing practical skills while encouraging independence, resilience and wellbeing.
Delivered by Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an and funded by Mubadala Foundation as founding partner, the Therapeutic Riding Programme is offered free of charge to eligible participants.
Our Therapy Horses
Our therapy horses are at the heart of the programme. Each horse is carefully selected for its temperament, patience and reliability, making them well suited to working alongside participants in a therapeutic setting. They receive the highest standards of care from our experienced equestrian team, ensuring their health, welfare and wellbeing are always prioritised.
Every horse is thoughtfully matched with participants to create a positive and comfortable experience where trust and confidence can develop naturally over time.
Register Your Interest
If you or someone you care for would like to take part in the Therapeutic Riding Programme, please complete the form below. Expressions of interest are reviewed together with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, and our team will be in touch regarding availability. All information you share is treated in strict confidence.
Join us as a Volunteer
Our volunteers are an essential part of every session, walking alongside participants and horses to help create a safe, encouraging environment where confidence can grow.
Whether you have equestrian experience or are simply keen to give your time, full training and support are provided by our Therapeutic Riding Instructor and support team. It is a rewarding way to be part of meaningful moments, meet like-minded people and see first-hand the difference horses can make.