It is not easy leaving stereotypes behind. When a group of horse fanatics in the UAE decided to set up an all-woman team in 2006, they knew they would raise a few eyebrows — not just because they were women but also because they were Emirati women.
The pioneering six members, all from the Dubai Women's College, named the team Arabyana.
Their success — with the usual ups and downs — is paving the way for women in the region being taken seriously in this fast-paced and physically demanding sport.
True to the Arab world
Talking about the team's name, president Hanan Al Muhairi explained:
“It derives from the words Araby, which means an Arab, and Ana, which means ‘I'. These words put together make ‘Arabyana'. This is not only a representation of the UAE but also of the Arab world.''
Even though Arabyana's journey has only really just begun, the women are truly committed, as can be seen in their progressive training strategies and stable management.
It hasn't all been plain-sailing, though.
Traditionally, it has not been acceptable in the UAE to have female horse riders, as it has been viewed as a highly physical sport, suited only to men.
Hopes of change
In fact, Arabyana is still not officially recognised as a team — but the members are hoping this will soon change.
“We are finding it very difficult because there are not a lot of members in the team who own horses. We are also facing a big challenge to set up an all-woman horse-riding centre,'' Al Muhairi said.
She added, though, that they have been delighted by the amount of support they have been given by the local community — something they need if they are to take the project further.
To keep her focused, Hanan looks to other inspirational Emirati women who have achieved great success in breaking boundaries, such as Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain and Shaikha Latifa Al Maktoum.
Media interest
This year has seen some very encouraging publicity for the team, including being part of a documentary screened in Dubai under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain.
The documentary was directed by Al Muhairi and looks at the origins of Arabyana and the challenges female riders in the UAE face.
It has taken five years for this team to really come together and make a strong stand but it still has a long way to go.
However, Al Muhairi is optimistic: “Never stop dreaming and never give up. As long as there is hope and the strong willpower to achieve something in life, there is no such word as ‘impossible'.''
— M. Rabis is a Lomdom-based freelance writer
