Sheikh Sabah Fahad Al-Nasser has called on the Public Authority for Sport to coordinate with Kuwait Municipality regarding the allocation of a dedicated site for horse stables. A recent survey cited by the chairman of the Supreme Horse Racing Committee and secretary-general of the Kuwait Hunting and Equestrian Club identified 1,884 horses housed in 235 stables scattered across desert areas. The initiative seeks to provide a safer environment for the animals and support their owners through improved facilities.
The horses include locally bred Kuwaiti horses as well as Thoroughbreds and purebred Arabian horses that compete in sprint racing and marathon events. According to Al-Nasser, these animals constitute an important national asset requiring proper infrastructure to ensure their welfare. Such a site would also help maintain traditional equestrian activities that have long formed part of Kuwaiti heritage.
“Given the importance of preserving this national wealth and supporting horse owners and traditional sports, a dedicated and suitable site is needed to accommodate these stables and provide an appropriate environment for the horses,” Al-Nasser said. The secretary-general stressed that current desert arrangements lack the necessary amenities and safety measures for sustained care. This request reflects efforts to address the needs of the substantial equine population under his oversight.
Figures from the World Arabian Horse Organization place Kuwait’s registered purebred Arabian horses at more than 10,500 with around 8,500 living animals in recent counts. The organization reported 2,187 foals registered during 2024, indicating continued expansion in breeding programs. Kuwait exported 24 horses and imported 123 during that period according to the registry data.
The Kuwait Equestrian Federation has documented rising participation levels with 327 horses registered across disciplines in 2026 per International Equestrian Federation records. Recent adjustments have increased the annual number of Arabian horse races to 40 including dedicated contests for Gulf-produced horses. Total prize money distributed across Kuwaiti racetracks exceeded one million Kuwaiti dinars in preceding seasons according to club announcements.
The Public Authority for Sport oversees requests for sporting infrastructure in coordination with municipal bodies responsible for land designation. Al-Nasser’s appeal aligns with broader initiatives to professionalize equestrian operations throughout Kuwait. The proposed facility could further support organization of both domestic competitions and international events hosted by national federations.
