Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts: The first classical horsemanship school outside Europe
Located on Jubail Island in Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA) campus brings together a 1,200-seat performance arena, a 14,000-volume equestrian library, 173 rare artefacts spanning 2,000 years, and the UAE's first saddle-making atelier. Visit for the weekly Furusiyya show, or take a guided tour through all eight spaces.
Overview
Inaugurated: October 2025
Known for: Classical horsemanship in the Arab tradition of Furusiyya
Horses: Pure Spanish-bred (PRE) white stallions
Performances take place in a climate-controlled indoor arena, 1,200 seats
Architectural style: Andalusian and Moorish with white stucco walls, arched doorways, terracotta roofs, central courtyard
Original score by Isa Najem + cinematic projections
A campus designed entirely around the horse
Spread across 65,000 sq m on Jubail Island, every detail is built for equine wellbeing.
60 air-conditioned stables with advanced ventilation
Dedicated outdoor training tracks
Architecture centered on horse-first design
Access to working stables and behind-the-scenes spaces
A guided tour gives you entry into active training and stable areas not open to the public.
Watch horses being trained in real time
Step inside climate-controlled stables designed for peak performance
See how riders and horses prepare off-stage
Live craftsmanship at the UAE’s first saddle atelier
Inside the saddle atelier, you’ll see craftspeople building saddles in real time.
Traditional techniques, not factory production
Materials, stitching, and shaping done by hand
A rare look at a disappearing craft
Tracing 2,000 years of horsemanship
The Equestrian Library and Furusiyya Gallery together trace the history of Arab horsemanship through rare texts and visual storytelling.
14,000 specialised volumes on classical riding traditions
Deep focus on Arab equestrian heritage and Furusiyya
Visual narratives connecting horse–rider traditions across centuries
Choosing between the show and the guided tour
Furusiyya: Return to Origins show tickets
Watch 40+ Spanish-bred stallions perform haute école movements in a 1,200-seat arena. Furusiyya: Return to Origins runs every Saturday at 6pm, with live choreography, an original score, and cinematic projections.
Seating options:
Standard seating for a full-stage view
Premium seating closer to the arena for a more detailed view of movements
VIP seating for the most immersive, close-up vantage point
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays, couples, and solo travelers
Know before you go: Not suitable for children under 3
Behind-the-scenes guided tour
Explore all eight spaces on campus with a specialist guide, from active stables and training areas to the library, gallery, and saddle atelier. This is the only way to access these spaces and understand how ADREA operates.
What you’ll see:
Stables and live training areas
Furusiyya Gallery and Equestrian Library
Saddle atelier with craftsmen at work
Best for: Curious travelers, families (including young children), and those interested in heritage and craft
Know before you go: No live performance; involves walking through multiple spaces
Things to know before booking your Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts tickets
You can either join a guided tour (Wed–Sun, 10am–5pm) to explore the campus, or attend the Saturday show at 6pm, which runs for about 60–90 minutes. Most visitors plan around one of these, as they offer very different experiences.
If you’re planning to watch the show, book in advance: weekend performances often sell out, especially for premium seating. Tickets are typically non-refundable and non-transferable, so it’s worth confirming your plans before booking. Tours are more flexible throughout the day, but popular time slots can still fill up.
Timings are strictly enforced. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before the show (doors close shortly before it begins) or 15 minutes before your tour, as late entry is usually not allowed.
During the live performance, photography and recording aren’t permitted, and all devices should be kept on silent. On guided tours, photography is allowed only in designated areas. Outside food and beverages are not permitted anywhere on the premises.
Beyond the arena, the guided tour will take you through working spaces like the stables, saddle atelier, library, and gallery, along with cultural areas that remain open through the day. For show visitors, the library, gallery, cafés, and restaurants are available if you plan to stay longer.
The show isn’t suitable for children under 3, while guided tours are open to all ages (young children must be supervised). Dress is smart casual or traditional, with modest coverage recommended. Comfortable footwear is advised for tours, as they involve walking through stable areas.
Accessibility & facilities: The venue is fully accessible, with step-free pathways and designated seating available. Parking is available on-site, though it can get busy during peak timings.
Plan ahead: ADREA is still relatively new, having opened in late 2025, so schedules and offerings continue to evolve. Demand is high, especially during cooler months from November to March, so planning will make your visit smoother.
Located on Jubail Island, surrounded by mangroves, the setting is part of the experience, but slightly removed from the city, so factor in travel time.
Highlights of your Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts experience
Inside the arena, before the lights come up
A quiet look at the performance space before it transforms into a full-scale production.
What’s special about the horses at ADREA
A royal breed shaped by two traditions
ADREA’s horses are primarily Pura Raza Española (PRE), a breed refined in royal courts for classical riding. Paired with Arabian bloodlines and Furusiyya philosophy, they combine precision with sensitivity, making movements feel controlled yet fluid.
Some stand out the moment they enter the arena: Mulhim’s levade, Muntassir’s passage, or Mahboub’s playful energy. Each horse brings a distinct presence, not just uniform precision.
Training shaped by two traditions
Every movement is built over years of one-on-one training, guided by subtle cues: posture, timing, and pressure. European technique shapes the form, but Furusiyya defines the relationship, placing trust and responsiveness at the center.
Riders carrying the tradition forward
Led by Chief Rider Gonzalo Marques Obeso, ADREA’s riders train in classical methods passed down through Europe’s great schools. Riders like Noora Al Qubaisi represent a new generation building an Emirati tradition of horsemanship.
Interesting facts about Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts
All five classical schools, one stage: At its opening gala in October 2025, ADREA became the first venue where all five classical horsemanship schools performed together (Vienna, Jerez, Lisbon, Saumur, and ADREA) sharing a single arena for the first time.
A library built around the horse: The Equestrian Library holds 14,000+ rare volumes and is the first of its kind in the Middle East. Its design centres around a hand-carved wooden core, making the space as much architectural as archival.
Craft as performance: The saddle atelier, Dar Al Hiraf, is the UAE’s first of its kind. Designed as a “room within a room,” it places the artisan at the centre, making the saddle part of the experience.
From endurance to haute école: ADREA’s first Emirati apprentice, Noora Al Qubaisi, transitioned from endurance riding to classical dressage, and performed alongside Europe’s four schools at the inaugural gala.
Built within a mangrove ecosystem: ADREA sits on Jubail Island, surrounded by protected mangrove forests. The campus was designed to work with the landscape, making it both a cultural and ecological destination.
A platform for global cultural exchange: In 2026, ADREA hosted a three-day event for the Chinese Year of the Fire Horse, bringing together Emirati and Chinese traditions through performances, calligraphy, and ceremony.
Plan your visit to Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts
Opening hours: Guided tours run Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.
Show time: The live show is every Saturday at 6pm with doors closing 10 minutes prior.
Visit duration: A full experience lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours.
On-site restaurants and cafés: Open daily until 11pm.
Best time to visit
Quiet periods: Mornings and late afternoons offer lower crowd levels for tours.
Show experience: Arriving early in the afternoon allows time for exploring the gallery.
ADREA is located on Jubail Island, around 15–20 minutes from Abu Dhabi city centre, between Saadiyat and Yas Island. | Find on maps
By car: The easiest option. Free self-parking and valet are available, but can fill up on show nights, so arrive early.
By taxi: Widely available via Abu Dhabi Taxi, Careem, or Uber. The most convenient option if you’re visiting for the evening show.
By shuttle bus: The free Experience Abu Dhabi Shuttle connects Jubail Island with major hubs like Saadiyat and Yas Island. Check routes in advance, as stops on Jubail Island are spread out.
ADREA is fully equipped with accessible pathways, seating, and restrooms. The team is available to assist People of Determination to ensure a comfortable and inclusive visit.
Wheelchair users holding a valid UAE-issued POD (People of Determination) card are entitled to complimentary seating at performances, subject to availability
A companion seat may be provided on request
Accessible seating must be reserved in advance with a copy of your valid ID and POD card emailed to the team.
ADREA is designed as a self-contained cultural campus, so you can spend a few hours here without needing to step out.
Dining across the campus: From sit-down restaurants to cafés and quick bites, many overlooking the arena or mangroves
Library café spaces: Quiet corners to pause, with coffee and views inside the Equestrian Library
Comfortable visitor amenities: Restrooms and seating areas spread across the campus
Easy access and parking: Free self-parking, and valet available on-site
Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is recommended. National dress is welcome, while beachwear is discouraged.
Photography & devices: Keep phones on silent at all times. No photography or recording during the show, limited photography allowed on tours (as advised by your guide).
Security: Security checks may be conducted on entry. Disruptive behaviour may result in removal without refund.
Food & beverages: Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue at any time, before, during, or after the show, and throughout the guided tour.
Respect the natural environment: ADREA is located within a protected mangrove ecosystem on Jubail Island. Avoid littering, stay within designated areas, and be mindful of the surrounding wildlife.
On-site
Ethr (Library café): Coffee and light bites in a quiet, book-lined space (roughly AED 20–40 for drinks, AED 30–60 for light bites)
Knead Bakery: Open on show nights for coffee, pastries, and quick snacks (Casual pricing similar to city cafés)
Restaurants across the campus: Sit-down and casual dining with views of the arena and mangroves (Expect ~AED 80–150 per person depending on venue)
Nearby
Jubail Island (e.g., Pura Eco Retreat): Scenic, nature-focused dining (Higher-end, typically AED 120–250 per person)
Saadiyat Island (10 mins): Wider range of restaurants, from casual to fine dining (AED 60 to 300+ depending on restaurant)
Insider tips for visiting Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts
Do the show and tour on different visits (if you can): The show is about spectacle and precision, while the tour gives you context: seeing training, spaces, and details you won’t notice from your seat.
Arrive early: Parking is free but fills up quickly on show nights. Getting there early also lets you explore the campus, cafés, and outdoor areas before the performance.
Don’t rush straight into the arena: Spend time around the library, atelier, and outdoor spaces. The way the campus unfolds is part of the experience, not just the show itself.
Watch the details, not just the big moments The most impressive parts of the performance are often the quietest: pauses, transitions, and how still a horse can hold a movement.
Pay attention to the rider In classical horsemanship, the less visible the rider’s cues, the more advanced the training. It’s subtle, but once you notice it, it changes how you watch the show.
Try the café inside the library: Ethr is easy to miss, but worth it for the coffee and desserts in a quiet, book-lined space. A good spot before or after your visit.
It can get cool inside the arena: The performance space is air-conditioned, so bring a light layer, especially for evening shows.
Frequently asked questions about Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts Tickets
Yes, ADREA show tickets are timed-entry only. You must attend at your selected slot; late arrivals risk being denied entry without a refund.
Show tickets start from AED 150 per person, with pricing varying across six seating tiers — Silver, Silver+, Gold, Gold+, Platinum, and Platinum+. Guided tour pricing is available at booking. Children under 3 attend the guided tour free of charge; children aged 3–5 may attend the show free if seated on a parent's or guardian's lap.
Photography, recording, and use of professional cameras are strictly prohibited during the performance; however, mobile images may be permitted in gallery and tour areas with clear visibility.
The show is a 90-minute performance of choreography, music, projection, and haute école movements in a 1,200-seat arena. The guided tour is a walk through all eight spaces on campus, including the stables, Furusiyya Gallery (173 artefacts), Equestrian Library (14,000+ volumes), and the UAE's first saddle atelier. The tour spaces are not accessible without a guide. The ticket also grants access to the Furusiyya Gallery and the Equestrian Library.
Children under 3 are not permitted at the show but are welcome on the guided tour. Children aged 3–5 may attend the show free of charge if seated on a parent's or guardian's lap; a full-price ticket must be purchased if a separate seat is required. All children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair-accessible, with designated entrances and pushchair-friendly routes available throughout, ensuring a comfortable visit for guests with mobility challenges.
Guided tours provide a small group walkthrough with live commentary, highlighting behind-the-scenes areas including the stables and training arenas where you can interact with the horses.
Smart casual or semi-formal attire is recommended for the immersive show, while national dress is welcome; avoid overly casual clothing to fit the refined atmosphere of the venue.
Arrive early for a midday guided tour, then allow extra time to explore the gallery before the 6 PM show. Combine both visits for a full immersive day experience.
ADREA is on Al Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, within a protected mangrove landscape. Complimentary on-site parking is available.
Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts (ADREA) Tickets
Crafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
Your tour ticket on a mobile device or as a high‑quality printout for scanning at entry.
Comfortable clothing and closed‑toe footwear suitable for walking and light outdoor exposure, in line with UAE cultural norms (e.g., shoulders and knees modestly covered).
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a light layer, as parts of the tour may be outdoors or in different temperature zones.
A valid photo ID for the booking holder, as venue staff may request it at entry.
What's not allowed
Photography outside designated areas; guests must follow staff instructions on where photos are permitted.
All mobile phones and electronic devices must be set to silent mode throughout the tour.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue at any time, including before, during, and after the show.
Disruptive, unsafe, or disrespectful behaviour is strictly prohibited. ADREA may refuse admission or remove guests without refund if they affect others’ experience.
Certain areas of the campus may be restricted to protect the well-being of the horses and preserve the calm of their environment. Your guide will advise on what's accessible.
Accessibility
The guided tour involves walking and outdoor exploration; some areas may include uneven surfaces or longer walking distances.
Additional information
Children under 3 years are allowed on the tour but must remain under direct adult supervision at all times.
All children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Complimentary on-site parking is available, subject to availability.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time; late arrivals may not be accommodated and may forfeit their ticket without refund.
ADREA can modify or cancel tour content, route, or duration; such changes do not entitle guests to refunds or price adjustments.
If a tour is cancelled or disrupted due to factors beyond ADREA’s control (e.g., weather, government restrictions, technical issues), guests may receive a voucher to rebook the same ticket category on a future date.
You must follow the guide’s instructions and comply with all health and safety protocols in place at the time of the tour.
Any images or recordings taken by ADREA or authorised third parties during the tour may be used in any media without compensation or time/place limits.
Inclusions
#
Guided tour of 8 immersive spaces across the ADREA campus
Access to Furusiyya Gallery (173 artefacts, 2,000+ years of equestrian history)
Access to the Equestrian Library (14,000+ volumes)
Access to Dar Al Hiraf saddle-making atelier with live demonstrations
Stable visit and arena viewing
On‑site complimentary parking, subject to availability
Exclusions
#
Show or performance tickets
Food and beverages
Personal purchases from the atelier or library
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
What to bring
Dress code: Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and outdoor sections of the campus. Attire should align with UAE cultural norms.
A valid photo ID for the booking holder, as venue staff may request it at entry.
What's not allowed
Children under 3 are not permitted entry.
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance. All mobile phones and electronic devices must be set to silent mode throughout the show.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue at any time, including before, during, and after the show.
Accessibility
Wheelchair users holding a valid UAE-issued POD (People of Determination) card are entitled to complimentary seating, subject to availability.
A companion seat may be provided on request; advance reservation is required by emailing the venue with POD card and ID copies.
Additional information
Children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
In cases of cancellation due to circumstances beyond ADREA's control (weather, government restrictions, technical failures), a voucher to rebook the same ticket category will be issued.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the show. Doors close 10 minutes before the performance begins. Latecomers will not be admitted once the show has started. Entry may only be possible during intermission, if one occurs.
Complimentary self-parking and valet services are available on-site, subject to availability, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Guests may be subject to security screening; health and safety protocols in force at the time of the event must be followed.
ADREA may adjust the show content or duration; minor changes and delays do not qualify for refunds or price reductions.
Any images or recordings captured by ADREA or authorised partners during the event may be used in any media without compensation or time/place limits.
Inclusions
#
Entry to Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts arena
Access to ADREA's weekly Furusiyya classical horsemanship performance
Reserved seat in your chosen category (Silver, Silver+, Gold, Gold+, Platinum, Platinum+)
Refreshments including Arabic coffee, dates, and other local delights
Access to on-site self‑parking (subject to availability)
Access to Furusiyya Gallery, Equestrian Library
Exclusions
#
Guided tour
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Sports
ADREA: Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts Guided Tour
What to bring
Your tour ticket on a mobile device or as a high‑quality printout for scanning at entry.
Comfortable clothing and closed‑toe footwear suitable for walking and light outdoor exposure, in line with UAE cultural norms (e.g., shoulders and knees modestly covered).
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and a light layer, as parts of the tour may be outdoors or in different temperature zones.
A valid photo ID for the booking holder, as venue staff may request it at entry.
What's not allowed
Photography outside designated areas; guests must follow staff instructions on where photos are permitted.
All mobile phones and electronic devices must be set to silent mode throughout the tour.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue at any time, including before, during, and after the show.
Disruptive, unsafe, or disrespectful behaviour is strictly prohibited. ADREA may refuse admission or remove guests without refund if they affect others’ experience.
Certain areas of the campus may be restricted to protect the well-being of the horses and preserve the calm of their environment. Your guide will advise on what's accessible.
Accessibility
The guided tour involves walking and outdoor exploration; some areas may include uneven surfaces or longer walking distances.
Additional information
Children under 3 years are allowed on the tour but must remain under direct adult supervision at all times.
All children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Complimentary on-site parking is available, subject to availability.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time; late arrivals may not be accommodated and may forfeit their ticket without refund.
ADREA can modify or cancel tour content, route, or duration; such changes do not entitle guests to refunds or price adjustments.
If a tour is cancelled or disrupted due to factors beyond ADREA’s control (e.g., weather, government restrictions, technical issues), guests may receive a voucher to rebook the same ticket category on a future date.
You must follow the guide’s instructions and comply with all health and safety protocols in place at the time of the tour.
Any images or recordings taken by ADREA or authorised third parties during the tour may be used in any media without compensation or time/place limits.
ADREA: Abu Dhabi Royal Equestrian Arts Show Tickets
What to bring
Dress code: Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and outdoor sections of the campus. Attire should align with UAE cultural norms.
A valid photo ID for the booking holder, as venue staff may request it at entry.
What's not allowed
Children under 3 are not permitted entry.
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited during the performance. All mobile phones and electronic devices must be set to silent mode throughout the show.
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue at any time, including before, during, and after the show.
Accessibility
Wheelchair users holding a valid UAE-issued POD (People of Determination) card are entitled to complimentary seating, subject to availability.
A companion seat may be provided on request; advance reservation is required by emailing the venue with POD card and ID copies.
Additional information
Children under 12 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
In cases of cancellation due to circumstances beyond ADREA's control (weather, government restrictions, technical failures), a voucher to rebook the same ticket category will be issued.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the show. Doors close 10 minutes before the performance begins. Latecomers will not be admitted once the show has started. Entry may only be possible during intermission, if one occurs.
Complimentary self-parking and valet services are available on-site, subject to availability, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Guests may be subject to security screening; health and safety protocols in force at the time of the event must be followed.
ADREA may adjust the show content or duration; minor changes and delays do not qualify for refunds or price reductions.
Any images or recordings captured by ADREA or authorised partners during the event may be used in any media without compensation or time/place limits.
