See the UAE’s island nature reserve on horseback

All I can say is that when I learnt to ride horses it wasn’t at all like this.

As with most things UAE, Sir Bani Yas Stables are truly five-star — a plush reception area with comfy leather couches, a far cry from the ride-briefing, dusty tack room I remember as a child.

Channels of new barns are set among perpendicular fences, encompassing rectangles of lush green grass, where friendly horses graze in luxury. British-standard riding hats, heeled boots and half chaps line the wall. The lack of dust, hay and other horsey-ness has you questioning if the place is lived in. That is, until you meet TJ.

Fact is the horses at the Sir Bani Yas Stables live in the lap of luxury, which is apparent the minute you step aboard. A mix of purebred, part-bred Arabians, thoroughbred racehorses and Irish sport horses (all accustomed to the climate as they were purchased in the UAE) are mild-tempered and full of individuality.

TJ’s a proud-looking ex-racehorse and a real gent, according to equestrian co-ordinator Laura MacLucas, who has us saddled up and off on a beginner ride after a walk through the stables.

Peacocks, cheetahs, giraffes, Arabian oryx, blackbuck antelope and Urial and Barbary sheep are just some of the wildlife roaming Sir Bani Yas Island, which, at about 85 square km, is one of the largest natural islands in the UAE. It was converted to a reserve in 1971.

The ride is perfect for beginners. A gentle circuit takes riders on a minitour of the dunes (shame about it being roadside), but almost guarantees the horses will not be shocked by unpredictable movements of wild animals. The horses are steady and responsive.

The Royal Bay Ride takes more experienced riders through the wildlife park (not in the cheetah fences) and for a canter along the shore.

One thing I would forewarn you of is that while the ride is enjoyable and something different to do, don’t expect the clichéd horses-running-through-water-along-a-sun-drenched-beach-with-the-wind-in-the-rider’s-hair experience. The beachfront is the more “industrial” side of the island, where ferries deliver guests to and from the island.