Emirates Racing Authority moves swiftly to implement anti-steroids law in UAE

Dubai: In an immediate response to the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to establish a law that forbids the import and use of anabolic steroids in horse racing and all other equestrian sports, the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA) announced that it is taking appropriate measures to put legislation in place.

Saeed Humaid Al Tayer, Vice Chairman of the ERA, praised the initiative by Shaikh Mohammad and said it highlights the UAE’s willingness to lead the countries battling to combat the use of anabolic steroids in equestrian sport.

Al Tayer also said that the new legislation will be clearer and more conclusive in banning the use of anabolic steroids and ensure that their usage is illegal.

He added that, once the legislation is passed, the UAE will have one of the most rigid laws in the world against the use of steroids in horse-related sports.

He also pointed out the importance of increasing awareness in the UAE about the dangers of using steroids and how its use violates the law and principles of fair and honest competition.

Al Tayer said the law will encompass all stables and horses taking part in all competitions and will be applied on all participants without exemption.