Requirements for organizing equestrian sports in Saudi Arabia: 100 million riyals in financial solvency
In a move aimed at transforming the equestrian sector in Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture has adopted a new set of regulations and requirements to govern and organize equestrian sports involving purebred Arabian horses. These decisions aim to raise the level of governance in this long-established sector and ensure that local championships meet the highest international standards, thereby reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leading center for Arabian horse heritage.
Historical context and strategic importance
These requirements are particularly important given the historical significance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the original home of the Arabian horse. These regulatory measures align with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great emphasis on national heritage and sporting activities. The King Abdulaziz Arabian Horse Center aims to develop the infrastructure for this sport, attract quality investments, and ensure the purity of the breed, which will positively impact tourism, sports, and the local economy.
Financial solvency and experience: strict requirements for regulators
The most prominent aspect of the new regulations is the emphasis on financial and organizational competence. The regulations stipulate that organizers must provide a financial solvency certificate with a minimum value of 100 million Saudi Riyals. The Ministry did not stop at financial requirements; it also stipulated proof of experience and organizational capacity in the field of equestrian sports, and a valid commercial registration for corporate entities, all to ensure that the championships reflect well on the Kingdom's reputation.
The regulations set out a precise licensing mechanism, starting with submitting a preliminary approval request during the first six days of January of each calendar year, which includes a detailed plan of the site, designs, and facilities, so that the center can study the request and decide on it within 30 working days.
Infrastructure and safety standards
The regulations also addressed technical and logistical aspects, requiring organizers to provide show arenas with world-class flooring and lighting, as well as warm-up areas of specific dimensions (20m x 10m). Regarding horse care, the regulations emphasized the provision of safe and isolated stables, especially for horses arriving from outside the Kingdom, along with all necessary services including water, bedding, and cleaning.
Regarding safety and medical care, it has become necessary to provide equipped ambulances and human and veterinary medical teams present throughout the tournament, with the organizer bearing full responsibility for the safety of the participants and the public.
International championships and financial prizes
Regarding international championships, the Ministry has established precise protocol standards, including the raising of participating countries' flags and the playing of the national anthems for the winners. Financially, the regulations stipulate a minimum prize money of 500,000 Saudi Riyals, mandatory doping tests in internationally accredited laboratories, and the distribution of prizes within a maximum of two months of the championship's conclusion. These measures aim to guarantee the rights of participants and promote fair competition.
