Dubai residents marked the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad with a powerful tribute, as 54 riders crossed the Al Ruwayyah Desert Tracks in a community-led equestrian procession celebrating unity, heritage and the “Spirit of the Union.”
The desert ride, organised on the final day of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), is being described as the first equestrian community event to take place under the month-long initiative. The group named the tribute “Dubai Horse Ride 2025,” releasing a video that captures the morning ride against the golden desert landscape.
Royal Stallions, Dubai’s first equestrian community established by Indian expats from Kerala, led the procession while carrying the UAE flag. They were joined by riders of various nationalities and trainers from Nar Horse Riding Stable, who ensured safety and coordination throughout the event. Participants wore custom T-shirts created for the tribute, and the group even produced an original anthem for the video.
Haris KBT, president of Royal Stallions, said the initiative was both a celebration of national pride and a push to highlight horse riding within Dubai’s growing fitness culture. He noted that the event symbolised the UAE’s inclusive identity. “This country embraces diversity like no other. Our ride reflected how people from different cultures move forward together under the UAE’s vision,” he said.
For many riders, the experience carried deep emotional significance.
Olga Kantariia, one of the participants, said holding the UAE flag while riding through the desert felt “powerful and unforgettable,” adding that the moment connected both the DFC spirit and the meaning of Eid Al Etihad.
Another rider, Shameer M Ali, described the ride as a heartfelt expression of gratitude. “This country has given us all a sense of belonging, and riding proudly with the UAE flag was deeply moving,” he said.
Supported by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, the tribute stood as a community-driven salute to the UAE’s heritage, unity, and continued journey forward.
