• The competition is organized by Special Olympics UAE and Special Olympics MENA, with the participation of 10 countries from across the region.
• The competition will take place in Al Ain from 24 to 28 August 2025.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – June 25, 2025: Special Olympics UAE, in collaboration with Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa (MENA), will organize the Special Olympics MENA Regional Equestrian Competition in Al Ain from August 24 to 28, 2025. This inaugural event will bring together equestrian athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities from 10 countries across the region, including from Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Oman and the UAE, while Libya will participate in the training preceding the competition.

Announced today during a press conference at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, the competition will feature multiple equestrian disciplines, including classical equitation, endurance riding, and horse handling, with inclusive divisions tailored to the athletes’ abilities. The formats are designed to highlight each athlete’s unique skills in a safe and welcoming environment.