From the Editor
“Safeguarding the UAE’s heritage and directing sincere efforts to enlivening the local scene with thoughtful activities that bring generations together is an essential requirement. While sparing no effort to keep up with the present times and their associated characteristics of modernity, we are unswervingly committed to protecting our identity through preserving the heritage of our ancestors.”
” الـخـيـــل الصـديـــق الـوفـي فـي الـسـلـم و الـحـرب. “ الشــيخ زايد بن سلطان آل نهيان ” The Horse is a Loyal Friend in Peace and War. “ Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the United Arab Emirates
nowned for their intelligence, loyalty and enduring spir- it. Beginning with this issue, we will shine a spotlight on the many facets of the equestrian world, celebrating the remarkable individuals, traditions and innovations shaping the industry throughout the region and beyond. Equestrian disciplines such as horse racing and polo are often referred to as the “Sport of Kings” and the “King of Games”, respectively. These prestigious sports embody centuries of heritage, luxury and tradition, continuing to attract royalty, nobility, distinguished enthusiasts, and the highest echelons of society from around the world. In the United Arab Emirates, the profound relationship between Emiratis and horses spans centuries and re- mains deeply interwoven with the traditions and identi- ty of the Arab World. More than simply animals, horses have long been trusted companions, enduring symbols of prestige and essential partners in survival across the harsh deserts of the Arabian Peninsula. This extraordinary bond traces its roots to the Bedouin way of life, where Arabian horses were carefully bred not only for their endurance and speed but also for their grace, intelligence and unwavering loyalty. They were treasured possessions and cherished members of the family, often sharing their owners’ tents. Revered for their resilience and noble character, Arabian horses have remained at the heart of Arab equestrian heritage for more than 4,500 years. As with every edition of Shawati’ , thank you for joining us and for supporting us on another editorial and visual journey. We look forward to presenting a very special com- memorative 75 th edition later this September. Until then, we wish you an abundance of good health, happiness and prosperity. Happy reading!
Welcome to the summer edition of Shawati’ magazine. Issue 74 chronicles many significant milestones and achievements across the UAE while also highlighting compelling global stories that span a wide range of inter- ests. Together, the stories within these pages reflect an ever-evolving world - one that we are honoured to capture both editorially and visually each quarter. Today, the UAE is almost unrecognisable from what it was just 54 years ago. In those early years, bridges were still being built, hospitals, schools and factories were under construction, oil production facilities were tak- ing shape, and international hotels were only just be- ginning to arrive. It was an era of discovery and rapid transformation, fuelled by the discovery of oil in the 1960s. This ushered in a new chapter that gradually re- placed the fishing and pearl-diving economy and revo- lutionised the face of this young nation. Yet, no matter how much the UAE accomplishes, it nev- er rests on its laurels. The launch of the country’s passen- ger rail network marks another landmark chapter in the nation’s infrastructure journey and stands as a testament to the ambitious vision that continues to define the UAE. On 30 June 2026, Etihad Rail’s first passenger rail service transitioned from a visionary blueprint into a remark- able reality. HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, officially inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi. Over the coming months, additional routes will be introduced, making travel between the Emirates easier and more connected than ever before. The visual inspiration for this edition is dedicated to our admiration for the Arabian horse. Beyond their ex- traordinary beauty and elegance, Arabian horses are re-
May Mohamed Khalaf Al Mazrouei
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