Saudi Arabia Declared Free of Horse Disease Dourine

Saudi Arabia has been officially recognized as free of dourine, a disease that affects horses, in a step that supports equine activities and international horse trade across the Kingdom. The recognition was granted in August 2026.

The status was confirmed after the Kingdom's self-certification was accepted, based on a detailed technical file. That file covered ongoing surveillance, field investigations, laboratory testing, and preventive measures applied across the country.

Dourine is a contagious disease that affects horses and can impact their health and reproduction. Achieving a disease-free status reflects the effectiveness of national monitoring and prevention efforts in protecting the Kingdom's horse population.

This is not the only equine health milestone recorded in 2026. Earlier in the year, Saudi Arabia was also recognized as free of equine viral arteritis, another disease affecting horses.

For horse owners, breeders, and those involved in equestrian events and trade, these recognitions carry practical value. A confirmed disease-free status strengthens confidence in the Kingdom's horses and can ease the movement and trade of animals, supporting the broader growth of equestrian activities in the country.

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