FINDING THE ONE: HOW TWO SAUDI SISTERS ARE DIGITISING THE HORSE-RIDER PARTNERSHIP (PART 1)
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HORSE TIMES EXPLORES THE JOURNEY OF TWO SAUDI ARABIAN WOMEN WHO ARE TRANSFORMING THE TRADITIONAL LANDSCAPE OF HORSE TRADING. DRIVEN BY THEIR PERSONAL FRUSTRATIONS WITH MARKET TRANSPARENCY AND AN ADMIRATION FOR HORSES, NJOOD AND NAJLA HAVE ESTABLISHED 'YOUR HORSE MATCH' TO HELP SAUDI RIDERS FIND HIGH-QUALITY HORSES FROM AROUND THE WORLD. BY BLENDING THEIR PASSION FOR THE SPORT WITH MODERN DIGITAL SOLUTIONS, THEY ARE FOSTERING A NEW CHAPTER OF HONESTY AND INTEGRITY WITHIN THE KINGDOM'S RAPIDLY GROWING EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY, ENSURING THAT EVERY HORSE FINDS ITS PERFECT MATCH THROUGH A CURATED AND ETHICAL LENS. CHRISTOPHE SARGIS SITS WITH THEM TO HEAR THEIR STORY....
1. What is your personal journey with horses, and how did it lead you to create ‘Your Horse Match’?
We grew up surrounded by horses and began riding over a decade ago. When the time came to purchase our first horse, we encountered significant obstacles in finding a suitable match and identifying ethical, trustworthy sellers. After conducting extensive research into importing from Europe, we took the initiative to manage the entire process independently, carefully sourcing the right animal ourselves. This hands-on experience allowed us to navigate the journey from start to finish. Following the horse's arrival, many people were curious about its origins and how we handled the logistics, which ultimately inspired the idea of establishing a dedicated brokerage agency.
2. Was there a specific moment or challenge that inspired the platform’s idea?
The turning point came when we first encountered fraudulent transactions and unrealistic pricing that failed to reflect true quality; we felt a profound responsibility to foster positive change and integrity within the equestrian community.
3. As sisters, how did your shared passion evolve into a business partnership?
As non-competitive riders, we chose to channel our shared passion, determination, and knowledge of the sport into a professional partnership that contributes meaningfully to the wider equine industry.
4. How does your family or cultural background in Saudi Arabia influence your equestrian perspective?
Growing up in Saudi Arabia, horses have always been an intrinsic part of our culture and daily conversation, extending far beyond the sport itself. This upbringing shaped our view of horses as beings deserving of deep respect, responsibility, and care. It influences every facet of our work, from our approach to the sport to the way we prioritise ethics, transparency, and equine well-being in every decision we make.
5. How do you see the evolution of the equestrian industry in Saudi Arabia today?
We are incredibly proud of the world-class equine projects emerging across Saudi Arabia and the robust support provided by the federation. We firmly believe that Saudi riders are the true driving force behind this success, through the knowledge, skills, and consistency they continue to cultivate within the discipline. It is an absolute honour for us to be a part of their journey.
6. Do you feel Saudi riders and owners have unique needs compared with other markets?
Every market has its own specific preferences; in the GCC, there is a general demand for horses that are ready for the competition ring, though specific requirements remain highly personal and unique to each individual rider.
7. How does ‘Your Horse Match’ contribute to Saudi Arabia’s growing equestrian ecosystem?
We contribute by continuously developing innovative equine solutions and delivering a more transparent, higher-quality service to the region’s riders and owners.
8. What exactly does ‘matching’ mean on your platform, rider to horse, buyer to seller, or more?
Matching is achieved by gaining a deep understanding of each client’s specific needs and expectations, carefully identifying the right horse to suit them, and providing expert guidance throughout the process. Our role is to create a balanced middle ground where the client’s goals, the horse’s suitability, and realistic market conditions align perfectly.
9. How does your matching process work in practice?
The process begins by receiving a client’s request and assessing the rider’s level and style. We then source suitable options and arrange veterinary examinations and trials—either on the client’s behalf or with the client riding in person. We handle all negotiations with the seller and finalise the process by arranging shipping to the final destination, guiding the client through every stage with full transparency and dedicated support. Simultaneously, we are developing new digital solutions to further simplify and enhance this experience.
10.What makes your approach different from traditional horse sales channels?
What sets us apart is our role as an independent, client-focused bridge between buyers and sellers, rather than a traditional sales outlet. We offer access to a curated selection of often off-market horses, backed by strong international connections and in-depth market insight. By continuously monitoring market trends and maintaining close relationships with trusted sellers, we provide tailored, transparent guidance and ongoing support. This is only the beginning, as we have further exclusive services and innovative solutions already underway to elevate the experience for our clients. HT
To be continued in Part 2....
See Your Horse Match here