In the sun-soaked desert of AlUla, a new chapter in Saudi equestrian sport is beginning. The air was thick with anticipation as officials from the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia (JCSA) formalized a partnership that promises to transform the region into a hub of horseracing excellence.
On 4 November 2025, Dr. Rayan Karkadan, Partnerships & Sales Director at JCSA, and Fraser Houlder, Executive Director of the Royal Commission for AlUla, signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh. The agreement marks a significant step in aligning AlUla’s equestrian ambitions with the broader Saudi Vision 2030.
The MoU outlines plans for the design and development of state-of-the-art horse racing and training facilities in AlUla. JCSA will lend its expertise in racing operations, program planning, and regulatory best practices, ensuring the region meets the highest international standards.
A cornerstone of the collaboration is the emphasis on equine welfare. Partnering with The Equine Hospital in Riyadh, the initiative will enhance veterinary care, farriery services, and training for local professionals, nurturing both the horses and the talent that supports them.
Officials emphasized that this partnership goes beyond sport. “This initiative will not only elevate AlUla on the global equestrian stage but also create meaningful opportunities for the community,” said Dr. Karkadan. The MoU aims to attract investment, foster sporting excellence, and provide residents with new avenues for engagement in horseracing and equestrian culture.
With this collaboration, AlUla is poised to emerge as a destination for national, regional, and international horseracing events, reinforcing its cultural and sporting significance. The project underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainability, community development, and global prominence in equestrian sports, perfectly reflecting the ambitions of AlUla Vision and Saudi Vision 2030.
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