The Equine Assisted Therapy program at Al Shaqab provides specialized therapeutic support for children with autism aged 3 to 12 through structured interaction with horses. This eight-week program integrates therapeutic riding with stable management activities to enhance social interaction, communication, motor development, and stress regulation.

Participants work with more than 180 horses of varying sizes and breeds, developing balance and coordination while learning to independently guide their horses by turning, stopping, and trotting within the arena. Each session extends beyond riding, as children take part in hands-on stable activities such as leading, feeding, and grooming their horses, fostering trust and a sense of responsibility.

Throughout the eight-week program, instructors and therapists apply an adaptable assessment framework to monitor each child’s individualized progress across skill areas and behavioral goals. This approach ensures therapeutic objectives are achieved while promoting autonomy and nurturing a relationship of mutual care between child and animal.