World

7 Equestrian Traditions, as per Hassan Al Mannai

Published

6 years ago

July 2, 2019

Childhood gives us the fondest memories that stick with us for the rest of our lives. Some of us are fortunate to discover our passions at a tender age and the same holds true in Hassan Al Mannai’s case. As it turns out, the first encounter with a horse can leave you wanting more. The calmness and exhilaration one feels at the same time are unique and worth holding on to. From there on, the pursuit of spending quality time with horses only gets stronger as the years go by.

Passion turns into a profession

In our case, Hassan Al Mannai visited many Arabian Horse Shows around the world which enhanced his understanding of the horse breeding industry and gave birth to his own breeding program with the introduction of Al Reeh Stud in 2013. Since then, he has been donning two hats; one as a banker and one as a horse breeder, doing justice to both his profession and calling. Today, he shares with us, these 7 equestrian traditions which he discovered during his journey.

1] Manes in the ‘right’ direction: Whether superstitious or not, plaiting manes to the right is something of a popular trend if not a force of habit.

2] Mounting: Does it really matter if we mount from the left or right? Well, if history is anything to go by, then yes, left is ideal.

3] Hairnets: Safety first is and always should be the motto. Even if my horses were to develop slight niggles, it would give me sleepless nights so hairnets that keep them protected get a big thumbs-up.

4] Colour of tacks: Black or brown? Set aside your personal preference and follow tradition! Choose a brown riding tack if you want to be viewed as ‘original’.

5] Straps: Nowadays, it’s more about being in vogue. As far as trends go, make sure you choose the ‘in’ straps. Usually, white garter straps go with topped boots and plain straps go with the untopped boots.

6] Bandage: In preparation for injuries, it’s important and universally agreed to carry bandages.

7] Attire: Usually, it’s about white or beige jodhpurs but this is of little consequence when you’re racing. After all, the muck and gravel are sure to turn them into a laundromat’s delight.

Future of horses (conclusion option 1)

The common thread between breeders and owners over the world is the commitment they have towards their horses. This needs to reflect in the facilities, right from shelter to medical care. As far as the industry goes, it holds great potential for horses given the advancement of infrastructure both in developed and developing countries. Hassan’s dream of creating a world-class ecosystem where horses live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives is something for all to see. Today, with his recent appointment as Director of Arabian Horse Show at the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, he is running from pillar to post to build deeper connects with ECAHO and hopes his recent successful election which gave him a position as an Executive Committee Member can “make the world a better place for horses”.

World

Swiss International University Enhances Student Employability with Major Global Collaborations

Published

4 weeks ago

November 8, 2025

Jenny Jackson

New collaborations with Citibank, Abu-Ghazaleh Global, RAK Properties, and others strengthen SIU’s commitment to connecting academic learning with global career opportunities.

Swiss International University (SIU) has already informed about the new corporate partnerships that will start in October 2025 and that they will provide students with better access to internships, training programs, and job opportunities in various fields.

The new partnerships are aligned with SIU’s goal to combine education with the real world, as they ensure that the graduates are equipped with the required knowledge, skills, and professional exposure to be successful in the global economy of today.

In the last few weeks, SIU has formed alliances with several major companies, including those from the banking, business, hospitality, real estate, and consulting sectors. The students will be actively involved in each collaboration through internships, practical training, and the career opportunities that will be given to them during or after their studies.

Among the key collaborations are

Citibank, where students of the business and finance fields will get to experience international banking operations through special training and possible hiring programs.

Abu-Ghazaleh Global has given SIU’s programs its official blessing and access to practical experience in global business, accounting, and consulting.

RAK Properties is going to give real estate and business students a chance to learn about property development, investment, and project management.

The Signature Inn Hotel Al Riqa L.L.C. offers students of hospitality a chance through real-life interrelated scenarios to gain the knowledge of front-office operations and guest management.

Al Shabaka International Businessmen Services is opening a door for the students to meet the professionals involved in global business consulting and administration.

Galadari Motor Driving Center, where students will get a clear insight into corporate management, customer relations, and operational efficiency.

Women’s First Jobs is going to help female students and graduates through career counseling, professional networking, and empowerment initiatives.

MyFounders.Club Global is building up the students and aspiring founders in terms of innovation and entrepreneurship by taking them through the process of developing and launching new ventures.

Revival AE Project Development Consultant Co., L.L.C., where students will be working on consulting for sustainable projects and environmental management.

“The partnerships that we have formed represent our commitment not only to the business world but also to the world of academia,” said the Head of Swiss International University. “We are aspiring to equip every student in SIU with the power to win the global job market through robust academic credentials, practical exposure, and a web of real opportunities. Our target is not a teacher-student relationship whose only need is the job—our students will be the ones making changes in the various fields of tomorrow.”

The academic world and the global market are the two areas where SIU, collaborating with partners at the present time, shows the institution’s continued commitment to creating a career-oriented academic environment where learning takes place beyond the walls of the classrooms.

The deadline of October 2025 is approaching, but the university is still looking to make new strategic partnerships to grow its network of global partners. It is clear from the continuous activities of the university that it is striving to offer its students worldwide the possibility of not only utilizing their skills but also being a part of the industry via employment and thus empowering them to make a difference in international markets.