NORA ALJABR: FROM HOBBY TO HORSEWOMAN HARNESSING HERITIGE
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IN A COUNTRY WHERE HISTORY IS ETCHED IN BOTH SAND AND STONE, NORA ALJABR DISCOVERED HER PURPOSE IN A FORGOTTEN EQUESTRIAN ART. IT WASN'T ABOUT STARTING SOMETHING NEW, BUT ABOUT RESURRECTING A HERITAGE THAT WAS FADING AWAY. FOR ALJABR, THE GALLOP OF A HORSE IS MORE THAN A RIDE; IT’S A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND A CONNECTION TO ARAB WARRIORS WHO ONCE DEFINED HER CULTURE.
A TRAILBLAZER IN A MALE-DOMINATED FIELD, SHE’S BECOME THE FIRST CERTIFIED FEMALE TRAINER IN MOUNTED ARCHERY AND TENT-PEGGING IN SAUDI ARABIA. AND IN THIS EXCLUSIVE HORSE TIMES INTERVIEW, ALJABR SHARES HOW HER PERSONAL PASSION EVOLVED INTO A MISSION TO BRING THESE ANCIENT SKILLS BACK TO LIFE, ONE POWERFUL STRIDE AT A TIME.
What sparked your interest in horses?
From a very young age I felt a natural bond with horses. They fascinated me; not only for their beauty and strength but for the deep role they have always played in Arab culture. My first encounter wasn’t just about riding, it was about feeling a part of something larger, a tradition that runs through our history. That spark never left me.
Your equestrian journey began as a hobby and evolved into a mission to revive a buried tradition. What was the turning point for you?
At first riding was simply my passion and my escape. But as I grew older I realised that many equestrian traditions that once defined Arab identity such as mounted archery and tent-pegging were slowly fading away. The turning point was when I discovered classical texts and stories about how vital these arts were in our history. That’s when my hobby became a mission: to revive what was almost forgotten and to give it new life in Saudi Arabia.
You are recognised as the first certified mounted archery and tent-pegging trainer in Saudi Arabia. What was the journey to achieving this certification like, and what challenges did you face?
The journey was far from easy. When I started, these disciplines were not common in Saudi Arabia and training opportunities were almost non-existent. I had to seek knowledge abroad, learning from international masters and traveling to gain certification. Being a Saudi woman in a male-dominated field also came with social challenges but I was determined. Those obstacles only pushed me harder to prove that Saudi women can master and lead in these fields.
Mounted archery and tent-pegging have deep roots in Arab history. Can you tell us more about the historical significance of these sports and why it's important to you to preserve them?
These sports were not just entertainment; they were once essential skills for Arab warriors and horsemen. Mounted archery was a form of survival and strength, while tent-pegging trained precision and speed in battle. They represent discipline, courage, and a bond between rider and horse. Preserving them means keeping alive a living connection to our ancestors and showing the world the depth of Arab heritage.
You've noted that these sports were not widely practiced in Saudi Arabia. What is the process of reviving these traditions and encouraging new equestrians to participate?
The process starts with awareness—sharing the history and beauty of these arts with the community. Then comes accessibility: creating training programmes, organising events, and opening the doors for youth and women to try. Social media has also played a big role; once people see these traditions come to life, their curiosity grows. Slowly, step by step, we are building a new generation of riders who are proud to practice them.
You now organise training sessions that are popular among women. What kind of impact do you hope to have on other Saudi women and girls who are interested in equestrian sports?
I want them to see that they have a place in this world, that equestrian sports are not limited by gender. I hope to inspire women and girls to embrace their strength, discipline, and cultural pride. When a young girl takes up a bow on horseback for the first time, she’s not just learning a sport, she’s connecting with her heritage and proving to herself that she can achieve anything.
Could you describe the feeling of freedom and connection you experience while practicing mounted archery?
It’s indescribable. When you gallop on a horse, bow in hand, and release an arrow into perfect flight, you feel absolute unity with the horse, the weapon, and the moment. It’s freedom, focus, and peace all at once. Time slows down and it feels as though you are living the very essence of our ancestors’ spirit.
What is the most challenging aspect of mounted archery and tent-pegging for a beginner to master?
The challenge is balance and focus. Riding alone requires skill and shooting a bow or striking a peg adds another level of difficulty. For beginners, controlling nerves and staying in harmony with the horse is the hardest part. But with patience, discipline, and consistent training, it becomes second nature.
What is your vision for the future of traditional equestrian sports in Saudi Arabia?
My vision is for Saudi Arabia to become the leading hub for traditional equestrian sports in the world. I want to see arenas, schools, and academies where these arts are taught to both men and women, and for our country to host international tournaments. Ultimately, I want these traditions to be recognised globally as part of our living heritage.
How has the Saudi Equestrian Federation and the Ministry of Sports supported your efforts?
Their support has been crucial. The Federation and Ministry of Sports have started opening doors for new sports and recognising traditional ones. Their backing allows us to create official competitions, gain exposure, and encourage more people to join. It’s a step forward for the entire equestrian community in Saudi Arabia.
You have competed internationally, representing Saudi Arabia as the first female horsewoman in tent-pegging in Jordan. How did it feel to represent your country on a global stage?
It was an honour beyond words. Riding with the Saudi flag, knowing that I was the first Saudi woman in that field, filled me with pride and responsibility. I wanted to prove that Saudi women can not only compete but excel internationally. It was both a personal milestone and a national one.
You are often seen wearing traditional attire during your performances. How does this connect to your mission of preserving Arab identity and heritage?
Clothing is a form of storytelling. By wearing traditional attire I am visually reviving the image of Arab horsewomen from history. It’s a reminder that these arts were once lived daily by our ancestors. My attire is not only aesthetic; it is a declaration of identity and pride.
Do you think there is a question we should have asked you but did not?
Perhaps: “What drives you every day to continue despite challenges?”
The answer would be simple: a sense of duty. I feel that I carry not just my passion but the responsibility of representing my culture, inspiring women, and ensuring that this tradition lives on. HT
Photosby Buthaynah AlHarthi, Bader A. Sanad and Naif Almuhawesh and courtesy of Nora AlJabr
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