The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has formalized a groundbreaking partnership with the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at establishing AlUla as a premier destination for equestrian excellence and horse racing. The agreement, signed on November 4, 2025, marks a significant step in developing world-class horse racing facilities and enhancing equestrian services in the historic region.
Context and Background
AlUla, the ancient crossroads of civilizations, has long been associated with Arabia’s rich equestrian heritage. This strategic partnership builds upon RCU’s ongoing initiatives to transform the region into a global cultural and tourism destination while preserving its historical connection to Arabian horsemanship. The collaboration with the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, the kingdom’s foremost authority in horse racing, represents a major milestone in AlUla’s development as an equestrian hub.
Development Plans and Expertise
Under the terms of the MoU, both organizations will work together to develop state-of-the-art horse racing and training facilities in AlUla. The Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia will contribute its extensive expertise in race operations, program planning, and international event organization, ensuring that the new facilities meet global standards of excellence.
A key component of the agreement includes collaboration with the Equine Hospital in Riyadh, which will establish comprehensive veterinary care services and implement advanced equine welfare standards in AlUla. This partnership will ensure that horses receive the highest level of medical care and attention, adhering to international best practices.
Training and Capacity Building
The MoU places significant emphasis on developing local talent through specialized training programs in the equestrian field. These initiatives will create new employment opportunities for Saudi citizens and contribute to the kingdom’s goals of nurturing expertise in specialized sectors.
Vision 2030 Alignment
This strategic partnership directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives by diversifying the kingdom’s tourism offerings and creating sustainable economic opportunities. The development of world-class equestrian facilities in AlUla will not only attract international visitors and investors but also preserve and promote Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage in horsemanship. As AlUla continues to emerge as a global destination for sports, culture, and tourism, this collaboration with the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia represents another significant step toward realizing the kingdom’s ambitious transformation goals.