Al Jiyad Stables is a famous desert riding place in Al Qudra and is among the places that offer horse riding experiences in Dubai. It provides visitors with horse rides, riding lessons, camel rides, and equestrian activities. It is in the stable area in Saih Al Salam, near the Al Marmoom desert area. There are lovely views of the desert and calming outdoor trails. It is suitable for both experienced and novice riders. The stable offers horse training and professional equine services. Unlike regular riding schools, it is in the desert. It is a great choice for families, tourists, and horse lovers looking for a unique desert adventure. 

Quick Facts 

Prices may vary, and the operating schedule is subject to change, so it is advisable to check the booking information which is available at the stable before travelling.

What Is Al Jiyad Stables?

Al Jiyad Stables is an equestrian facility in the Al Qudra area, owned by the Al Jiyad family, which offers equestrian and recreational riding services. According to its official website, the stable was established in 1989 by Ali Al Marzooqi. 

The operation is now beyond a “stable riding” concept. It currently offers desert trail rides, horse-riding lessons, group rides, camel experiences, and professional training. The stable also states that it has over two hundred horses at its Al Qudra site.

For its visitors, its location is important. The stable is located in the desert location of Saih Al Salam near one of the most famous conservation areas in Dubai. This enables riders to experience an equestrian activity in the midst of the Al Qudra desert.

Where Is Al Jiyad Stables Located?

The main stable is situated on Al Qudra Road in the area of Saih Al Salam in Dubai. It currently has the official contact page at R6FQ+H5R, Al Qudra Road, Dubai. According to the older website, the stable is about one kilometre in front of Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa. 

It’s not a central Dubai attraction, but rather a desert location. Those coming from central areas should plan accordingly, take longer to drive, and inquire about the precise path before they set off.

The site is also ideal for those who are already interested in visiting the Al Qudra desert, as the stable will be easily accessible.

Al Jiyad Stables and Al Marmoom Desert

It is advertised that the stable’s riding sessions will take visitors to the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. 

Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is the largest protected area in Dubai, covering nearly 23% of Dubai, in view of which Dubai Municipality has designated it. It is located in Sayh Al Salam and is home to desert flora and fauna including the Arabian oryx, the sand gazelle and the Arabian gazelle, as well as many bird, reptile and invertebrate species. 

That’s why the surroundings are an integral part of the riding experience. But do not expect to see any wildlife. The chances of seeing an oryx or gazelle are dependent on natural conditions.

How to Reach 

This is on Al Qudra Road, Saih Al Salam Desert, Dubai, approximately 1 km before Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa.

By Car

• Take the Dubai–Al Ain Road (E66) from Dubai city centre and head towards Al Qudra Road (D63).
• Continue in the direction of Al Qudra Lakes / Bab Al Shams Desert Resort.
• The stables are just before reaching Bab Al Shams, close to the Dubai Endurance City area.
• It will take about 40-50 minutes to drive to the destination.

By Taxi

Unless you are driving, the best way to get around is by taxi. The drive time from central Dubai areas is around 50 minutes. Request the driver to drive to Al Jiyad Stables on Al Qudra Road, close to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort.

By Public Transport

The stables are in a desert area, so there are not many public transport options. Most visitors will use the metro or bus to get to a nearby area and then taxi there.

Horse Riding Experiences Available

The stable has various methods of experiencing its horses. The right one is determined by whether you are a beginner, have experience riding your bike, or you just want to get out for a leisurely walk.

Desert Trail Rides

For visitors wishing to ride outside the stable grounds, the most popular ride is the desert trail ride. The official page today calls short trail rides ‘about 45 to 60 minutes of relative leisure’ and states that they are intended for: ‘Beginners or families and visitors who want a more relaxed experience’. 

The current listing price is AED 150 for each ride. There are also seasonal morning and evening schedules on the website.

If you’re new to riding, it’s important to let the staff know when you book, so they can accommodate your level of experience. One should not think that an outdoor ride is the same as a formal riding lesson.

Horse-Riding Lessons

Those who wish to learn about horse riding can arrange horse-riding lessons. The official lesson page is updated and currently states that sessions are available for beginner and intermediate riders. It specifically describes instruction covering fundamentals such as mounting, reins, posture, balance, and stopping safely. 

The listed starting price is AED 250 per session, and each session lasts around 45-60 minutes. The stable is available for private lessons or small groups as desired and available. 

If your goal is to improve your riding skills, this is a more suitable choice than a trail ride.

Group Horse Rides

The stable offers group horse rides as well. These are offered as informal, easy-to-ride events for various levels of experience and age. 

If families, friends, or visitors wish to share the activity but do not wish to book individual lessons, then a group ride may be appropriate.

Public information is not a blanket group capacity for all sessions, and the actual group size and availability will be confirmed at the time of booking.

Camel Rides

Horseback riding is not the only activity that is offered in the desert. Four-wheel drive is also available at the stable, as well as camel rides, including those at sunrise and sunset. 

This is a great option for visitors who want a true desert experience but don’t want to spend their entire trip on horseback.

Al Jiyad Stables Prices

Note:  the above prices are quoted as “from” prices, as availability, package type, and scheduling will impact the price. The official website for the rides listed is the same one currently in place, but it does not provide a full price list for all services.

Al Jiyad Stables Timings

The stable’s timetable varies with the season.

The existing riding pages detail early morning and early evening rides in the summer and a wider selection of early morning and early evening rides in the winter. 

The following seasonal framework is provided by the older official package page:

• November to March: Morning classes: 6:00 AM, Afternoon classes: 3:00 PM.
• April to October: earlier morning sessions beginning at 5:30 AM and evening sessions extending to 8 PM.
• The rides last typically 45 minutes to an hour.

It also states that rides will be subject to weather conditions, so a ride may not run at the time it is advertised if it is not suitable for the conditions. 

What Is the Best Time to Ride?

Desert riding is very appealing in the early morning or late afternoon/evening sessions due to the cooler temperatures.

The stable itself showcases sunrise and sunset experiences, and the seasonal timetables change the times of the rides to cooler times. 

For photography enthusiasts, it may also be a better time for a sunrise or sunset session, and a more dramatic desert backdrop.

Is Al Jiyad Stables Suitable for Beginners?

Yes. Beginners are welcome, and the current official website makes it clear; there are beginner trail rides and lessons. 

If the person has never ridden before, a lesson is usually the logical first step, as it is there that the basics of control and safety are taught. The lesson information from the stable is on the topic of mounting, reins, balance, posture, and stopping. 

The difference between a recreational trail ride and a traditional ride is that a recreational trail ride is more about enjoying the environment.

Be sure to specify when you book which of the following you are:

• A complete beginner.
• A person who has been in a car at least once.A person who has been on a bike at least one time.
• An intermediate rider.
• An experienced equestrian.

This enables staff to decide on the most suitable horse & activity.

Can Children Ride at Al Jiyad Stables?

Children are able to engage in some experiences according to current official information. The riding lesson page says that lessons are offered for children 5+, and the older package information says that the minimum age is 3 years. 

The published age limits may vary on pages and apply to different experiences, so parents are advised to check the age limit on the specific experience they are booking.

The stable also offers pony rides and guided rides for youngsters. 

If you’re looking for a pony experience for the younger end of the age spectrum, it can be better suited to them than a longer trail ride.

What Should You Wear?

Clothing for comfort and safety is important.

Long trousers and closed-toe shoes, preferably riding boots, are recommended by the stable. Helmets will be provided for riders, and chaps and boots will be available if available. 

Long trousers are very handy as riding equipment can chafe against bare skin. Closed shoes offer more protection than sandals or open shoes as well.

Lightweight, comfortable clothing is helpful for desert rides, particularly in warmer weather. Follow the stable’s directions for safety equipment.

Is There a Weight Limit?

Yes. In the old official package information, the weight of the rider was given as 85 kg maximum and height as no limit. 

The suitability of a horse for a specific activity may differ, and for anyone near the stated limit, the suitability of a horse should be confirmed with the stable before booking.

This is especially relevant since the weight of the rider has an impact on horse welfare, a proper fit of the saddle, and the appropriateness of a particular riding activity.

What Should You Know Before Your First Ride?

The first time around, a desert ride is much easier when you are ready for it. The stable requires riders to arrive 20 minutes before their riding time in order to give them time to brief and select an appropriate horse. The consequences of late arrival can be waiting, a shorter ride, or missing the chance to ride. 

Riders should pay attention to their guides and adhere to the safety guidelines provided by the stable during the ride. The official package information cautions riders not to shout, kick, slap, or make sudden movements around an animal that could cause an accident or the animal to be frightened. 

The basic preparation is thus very simple: arrive early, wear appropriate clothing, use provided safety equipment, and be honest about your riding competence.

Does the Stable Offer Professional Horse Training?

Yes. The stable’s current website states that Al Qudra facility is a professional training facility for all levels of riders. 

It offers a wider range of services, such as equestrian activities other than riding. The older website has a section on services like stable leasing, horse/camel showing, and endurance riding. 

This will expand the function of the facility beyond that of just a tourist desert ride business.

If you are interested in training for a long period of time, though, it is important to ask about the current teacher, training module, how often you can take lessons, and what competitive preparation is available, and not just take the standard rider visit package.

Horse Livery and Stable Leasing

You can also consider livery or stable hire for your horses.

The stable’s official website claims that it houses horses for owners who don’t have enough time or room to train their horses. 

Information on the public pages concerning the terms of the commercial transaction is not sufficiently detailed to give a reliable current price in a single month. Any prospective livery candidate should find out what it will take to feed, care for him or her, allow him or her to exercise, train, and vet him or her, as well as ask about stable conditions and what is offered in their quoted fee.

The difference is significant as livery packages may differ substantially in terms of the amount of care and training.

What Makes the Al Qudra Location Special?

The desert aspect of the experience is perhaps the best.

The two are linked to more expansive desert scenes and lakes and conservation areas instead of the high-density urban environment that surrounds the central part of Dubai.

Dubai Municipality states that the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is a vast protected desert with Arabian oryxes, gazelles and various bird and reptile species. The reserve also provides for sustainable recreation. 

The location thus offers an inviting spectacle for those wishing to experience something other than a typical urban attraction.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between the commercial riding activities in the stable and the reserve itself. Guests are expected to respect the conservation regulations in place and not approach, feed, or disturb wildlife.

What Makes the Al Qudra Location Special?

According to the official website, visitors can reach the stable via the website or WhatsApp to book a ride. 

The old site also advises booking in advance and offers contact details for the Al Qudra facility. 

It is advisable to check:

• Precise activity and length of time.
• Current price.
• The date/times are available.
• The selected experience’s minimum age requirement is shown.
• Rider weight requirements.
• Inclusion of helmets and other equipment.
• Weather-related cancellation arrangements.
• Exact meeting point.

According to the current official contact page, the contact info for Al Jiyad Stables is info@aljiyadstables.ae, and the Al Qudra location is R6FQ+H5R, Al Qudra Road, Dubai. 

Final Thoughts

For those looking to experience Dubai desert horse riding in an outdoor setting, Al Jiyad Stables is a perfect option. Al Qudra is located and offers riding lessons, guided trail rides, camel experiences, and professional equestrian services for beginners, families, and experienced riders. There is a basic lesson for first-time visitors to the desert or for those who are new to riding, and longer rides for those with experience. Please check the current booking information before visiting, as prices, timings, and requirements for activities may change. Always check the official website for the latest information on what’s available for an experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Al Jiyad Stables located?

It is situated on Al Qudra Road in Saih Al Salam, Dubai, and the current official address is R6FQ+H5R, Al Qudra Road. The older official website indicates that it is about one kilometre in front of Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa. 

How much is horse riding at Al Jiyad Stables?

The official website has desert trail rides at AED 150 and horse-riding lessons at AED 250 per ride. These are initial prices and must be verified at the time of booking. 

Is Al Jiyad Stables good for beginners?

The stable also provides easy-level riding and riding lessons for beginners. It has a lesson programme that teaches basic skills like balance, posture, reins and safe stopping. 

What is the minimum age for horse riding?

There are different requirements for each activity published. The current lesson page states that children are able to take lessons from age 5, and the older general package information states a minimum age of 3. Please check the need for your ride before making a booking. 

What is the maximum weight for riding?

The published details of the package for the stable at the time of writing indicate a maximum rider weight of 85 kg. 

How long is a horse ride?

The duration of its rides is usually around 45 minutes to one hour for each one in the stable.  

Does Al Jiyad Stables offer camel riding?

Yes. Sunrise camel rides and sunset camel rides are just some of the desert experiences offered by the stable. 

Do I need horse-riding experience?

No. The stable advertises to accommodate both novice and advanced riders, and they can match riders with an appropriate horse and guide. 

What should I wear for horse riding?

Long trousers and closed-toe shoes, preferably riding boots, are to be worn. Helmets will be provided, and boots/chaps will be available if possible. 

Can I see Arabian oryx during the ride?

The desert surrounding Al Marmoom has the potential to contain wildlife. Dubai Municipality states that the reserve is home to the Arabian oryx and a number of gazelle species. But don’t expect to see wildlife every time.