The Arabian Racing Organisation (ARO) is the sole authority for Arabian racing in the UK operating under the guidance and permission of the BHA.
The UK was one of the founding members of the International Federation of Arabian Horseracing Authorities (IFAHR), who also maintain the International Classification system to assist global competition.
Arabian racing takes place in 32 countries worldwide including France, America and the Gulf States. The most valuable Arabian race in the UK is the £400,000 Qatar International Stakes run at Goodwood as part of the Qatar Goodwood Festival.
Integration with British Racing
Currently the fixture list and regulations of Purebred Arabian (PA) racing are approved by the BHA, with the BHA also providing integrity services for any Purebred Arabian races on thoroughbred cards.
For further information, please see the latest announcements:
December 2019: Purebred Arabian racing to be integrated further into British racing from 2020
December 2020: Further Integration of Purebred Arabian Racing with British Racing from 2021
March 2023: Arena Racing Company purchases Arabian Racing Organisation
Horses
Only Purebred Arabian (PA) horses, registered with ARO are eligible to participate in Arabian races in the UK. Arabian horses are issued with a passport, microchipped and vaccination records need to be up to date in accordance with the BHA Regulations.
Trainers
Existing ARO trainers, who wish to continue training only Purebred Arabian horses in 2024, should apply to ARO for a licence. Licences must be renewed annually and are valid from 1st January to 31st December inclusive. Those wishing to apply for a BHA license will be assisted in this process and should contact the ARO office for further details.
New Purebred Arabian trainers wishing to train should also apply to the ARO office to work towards fulfilling all the requirements of the BHA licensing process for 2024.
Existing BHA licensed trainers (Flat and Combined) are able to train both Purebred Arabian (PA) and Thoroughbred horses from their current licensed premises.
Owners
Owners must be at least 16 years old and be registered annually with ARO; an owner is bound by the BHA Regulations for Arabian horseracing. All horses must be registered in the correct ownership with the Arab Horse Society to be eligible to run under ARO rules.
The Arab Horse Society can be found here.
Jockeys
To be eligible to ride in Arabian races, all jockeys must either be professionals or hold a Category ‘A’ or ‘B’ amateur licence with the BHA or equivalent recognised racing authority. Professional and Amateur jockeys are able to ride against one another in Arabian Races.
Fixture List
The full fixture list for Arabian Racing can be found here.
Administration
Arabian horseracing in the UK is administered by ARO. ARO will provide the BHA and Weatherbys with all appropriate data relating to trainers, horses, stable staff and owners as and when appropriate or required.
For further information on all aspects of Arabian racing in the UK, including rules and regulations, sourcing and registering horses, race plans and conditions, please contact the ARO Racing and Operations Manager Willie McFarland at [email protected] or visit www.aroracing.co.uk.
