SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
As the largest hunting and equestrian event in the Middle East, the 21st edition of ADIHEX, currently underway in Abu Dhabi, is injecting renewed momentum to the UAE capital's equine sector.
Running until September 8 at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, the exhibition is featuring a wide array of initiatives and exhibits with the participation of thousands of brands specialising in hunting and equestrian sectors.
With their state-of-the-art facilities and top-tier veterinary services, Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, together with the newly established Abu Dhabi Equine and Camel Hospital, is attracting the attention of the visitors.
At their ADIHEX pavilion, Dr. Jessica Johnson, Director of Veterinary Services at Abu Dhabi Equine and Camel Hospital, introduced the new facility, currently under construction in Al Wathba which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Dr. Johnson, a board-certified European Specialist in Large Animal Surgery, graduated from University College Dublin in 2011 and has extensive experience in Qatar. She moved to Abu Dhabi in December 2023 to take the role of Director of Veterinary Services at Abu Dhabi Equine and Camel Hospital.
"The hospital will be a specialist centre for horses and camels, offering comprehensive services including surgery, sports medicine, and internal medicine. In the meantime, they are already providing some services through an ambulatory unit, with doctors equipped with X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, and shockwave technology visiting farms across the UAE," Dr. Johnson told Aletihad.
She noted that ADIHEX has given them a valuable opportunity to engage with horse owners, introduce their services, and share information with the public.
Dr. Johnson expressed excitement about the hospital's opening and their commitment to providing excellent veterinary services, including 24/7 emergency care.
With over 80 animals and pioneering services, Abu Dhabi Equine and Camel Hospital (ADECH) stands as the world's first referral facility for horses and camels and is on track to become the GCC's largest veterinary hospital.
Also speaking to Aletihad, Anthony Lowry, Equestrian Director at Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, said that ADIHEX is a great opportunity to meet industry professionals, and highlight the club's fresh start with new facilities and a new team.
Established in 1976, the club offers lessons to riders of all levels, in addition to livery services and education and professional development through the British Horse Society system, Lowry added.
"In addition to the new facilities, we are introducing retail shops, cafes, and restaurants at the club. We are also BHS (British Horse Society) approved, which ensures we maintain high international standards in both our facilities and coaching."
Lowry added that they are "embarking on a new journey with a vision to become the leading equestrian destination in the region operating at the highest international standards".