Taif becomes hub for preserving Arabian horse heritage
Breeders safeguard bloodlines of Saudi Arabia’s cultural icon
TAIF, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — In the highlands of Taif, long known for its natural beauty and tradition, breeders and enthusiasts are working to protect one of the Kingdom’s most enduring symbols — the Arabian horse.
Experts say the city has become a center for the preservation of pure bloodlines, with breeders committed to safeguarding the authenticity of the breed.
Their work has helped Saudi Arabia record the highest number of Arabian horse births in the world, according to Saudi Gazette report.
“The Arabian horse is unmatched in authenticity,” said Dr. Fawziah Al-Salmi, professor of zoology at Taif University. She credited breeders’ dedication to maintaining original genes as a key factor in the breed’s global status.
Beyond its genetic heritage, the Arabian horse holds deep cultural significance. Dr. Talal Al-Thaqafi, a faculty member and cultural critic, described it as a living emblem of courage, pride, and beauty, with strong ties to Islamic history and Arab poetry.
Local and national initiatives in Taif are ensuring the preservation of this legacy through education, stewardship, and institutional support, keeping the Arabian horse a vibrant part of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.