Dubai Racing Club’s Rehoming and Rehabilitation Centre was founded in 2000 by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. In 2021 it was renamed ‘Dar Al Khail’ which means ‘home of the horse’.
Dar Al Khail is open to all ERA registered ex-racehorses in the UAE, both Thoroughbred and Purebred Arabians. At its current facility, there is capacity for around 70 horses who mostly live outside during the winter, moving to air-conditioned stables during the warmer months.
The centre, run by Manager Heather Copland alongside Ahmed Ajtebi, Assistant, Rehan Forza, Senior Foreman, as well as 15 grooms and two riders. On arrival from their trainers, horses are assessed and given a minimum of six months off, before they are gently ridden and the rehoming process can begin. Dar Al Khail carefully chooses homes for its horses and they are checked regularly to ensure ongoing suitability.
In the past year, more than 40 horses have been successfully re-homed by Dar Al Khail. Success stories include dual Meydan Racecourse winner Speedy Move, now loving life at Al Habtoor Polo Club Riding School, while former outrider pony Mr Marty enjoys desert hacks at the stunning Al Maha Resort. Memento Mori, a half-brother to Dubai World Cup winner Mystic Guide, is thriving in his second career, having recently started showing classes.
Some horses may not be suitable for rehoming, being too old or unsound. These live out their days at Dar Al Khail as cherished friends of Dubai Racing Club. Stars currently in situ include 33-year-old Massyar, a Group 2 winner during his racing days, Eu Tambem, winner of the G1 Argentine Derby in 2006 and Trademark, winner of the prestigious G1 Durban July in South Africa in in 2001.
For more information, to enquire about rehoming a horse or visiting Dar Al Khail, please contact Heather Copland at [email protected] or call/whatsapp on +971 50 653 6219
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Photo credit - Elizabeth Glanville