ADREA, a new Andalusian-style dressage facility in Abu Dhabi, officially opened its doors with a grand gala on Thursday, highlighting classical horsemanship in an extraordinary performance. Set in the mangroves of Jubail Island, the venue is described as the first of its kind outside Europe and was inaugurated by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. It is now the fifth major institution globally devoted to preserving and promoting the centuries-old art of classical horsemanship.
The opening gala brought together top riders from Austria, Spain, Portugal, France, and the UAE, showcasing an elegant fusion of Andalusian guitar, Arabian melodies, light projections, and choreography. Performances featured breathtaking displays of classical horsemanship, with riders and their horses performing synchronised movements reminiscent of ballet. Horses executed impressive jumps, swayed gracefully on two legs, and even appeared to dance through the arena in a way that highlighted both athleticism and artistry.
The Art of Classical Horsemanship
ADREA focuses on presenting classical horsemanship as an artistic form rather than as part of the competitive dressage circuit. The gala demonstrated this approach, as traditional movements such as the passage, piaffe, and capriole were reimagined as balletic gestures. “It’s an art, not a science,” said Gonzalo Marques, ADREA’s Chief Rider, emphasising the balance between athletic skill and artistic storytelling that defines the school’s performances.
Shamma Al Mazrui, Vice-President of ADREA, underscored the deep-rooted relationship between horse and rider, which is central to classical horsemanship. “It is based on a relationship between a horse and a human that moves together as one without force and without fear,” she explained. ADREA’s mission is not only to preserve this rich heritage but also to train a new generation of riders in this timeless discipline.
The Role of Heritage and Technology
A central feature of ADREA’s campus is the Furusiyya Gallery, which houses over 173 rare objects and manuscripts that span two millennia of equestrian history. These artefacts trace the evolution of the horse from a companion to a symbol of power, war, and culture. The gallery serves to connect visitors with the legacy of horsemanship, setting the stage for the performances in the arena. “Heritage is not a museum that you need to garden it needs to be lit and burned with a new light,” Al Mazrui remarked.
Incorporating modern technology into traditional practices, ADREA uses an AI-based monitoring system to assess horses’ physical activity, environmental conditions, and stress indicators. This technology helps optimise care and rest cycles, ensuring the horses are given the best possible environment for training and performance.
A Hub for Equestrian Excellence
Occupying 65,000 square metres, ADREA offers a range of facilities, including an Olympic arena, saddle-making ateliers, and an extensive equestrian library housing over 14,000 books and manuscripts. The library is set to become a key resource for global equestrian scholarship, while the Saddle Atelier will teach the craft of saddle-making through live workshops and restorations. The campus also includes a Tack Room and public spaces for exhibitions and research collaborations.
ADREA’s educational offerings cover five core programmes: a four-year rider degree, a two-year ceremonial rider programme for military and police units, a grooming specialist course, short mastery clinics, and a horse-development programme. There are also plans to launch a Junior Academy to introduce children to the discipline from an early age, focusing on care, discipline, and research before riding.
A Cultural Destination
More than a school, ADREA is positioned as a cultural hub and tourist destination. Visitors can book guided tours through the galleries, stables, and training arenas, and attend weekly performances in the 1,200-seat arena. The venue aims to inspire reflection through its combination of culture, community, and craftsmanship. It also highlights the prominent role of women in horsemanship, with female leaders in senior management and the first Emirati women joining as riders.
Through partnerships with universities, ADREA seeks to push the boundaries of equestrian research, exploring the potential benefits of horsemanship for education, rehabilitation, and mental health. While its academies are selective, the institution plans to offer public programmes that focus on horse welfare and provide broader access to the art form.
ADREA aims to establish itself not only as a leader in equestrian education but as a destination for those interested in culture, heritage, and the art of horsemanship.
