Junior Horse Riding Camps in Abu Dhabi
We create space where kids and teenagers interact with horses as true partners, building trust and developing mindful, effective communication.
We combine riding with elements of Natural Horsemanship to create a deep and respectful connection with the horse. The program also includes horse care and educational theory modules.
We support humane and ethical treatment of both horses and people, focus on sustainable progress, and strive to ensure that every lesson brings joy, confidence, and inspiration.
The Team
Our team has deep expertise in both the theory and practice of equestrian sport, as well as in horse welfare and care.The team brings together eventing athletes (show jumping, dressage, and cross-country), horse owners, and organizers of equestrian events, camps, and riding trips across different countries.We prioritize the well-being of the horse and the rider’s calm, confident state, creating the foundation for productive partnership, sustainable results, and genuine enjoyment of the process.We stand for human and respectful treatment of both horses and people.
Gentle Horsemanship Training Method Workshop
Gentle Horsemanship Training Method
Practical Seminars & Clinics in Abu Dhabi (Al Bahyah)A series of in-depth, hands-on seminars for riders and horse owners who want to build a true partnership with their horse — based on understanding, trust, and clarity, not force.Led by Maria Petrova — expert in equine science, behaviour, and gentle training methods, the seminars focus on equine psychology, safe handling, behavioural work, and holistic horse care.This program is designed for:
• horse owners
• riders and amateurs
• competitive athletes
• anyone seeking a deeper, more conscious way of working with horses📍 Location: Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi
📅 Format: 3 progressive weekend modules (Friday–Sunday)
• March 6–8
• March 13–15
• March 20–22Weekdays between modules are available for additional private sessions, consultations, bodywork, and hoof trimming.👉 Learn more about the program, methodology, and participation options below.
Reviews
Tatiana, Zoya – horse owners, show jumpers
We live in Portugal, and we have a stallion. Our daughter, Zoya, competes with him in show jumping. But for us, he is much more than just a sport horse. He is a living, thinking being – a true member of our family.
We genuinely want to build a real connection with him: to understand his personality, his habits, and his needs. It is important for us to respect his boundaries, while also teaching him to understand and respect ours.
At the moment, our horse is stabled within the city. He does not have access to pasture turnout, and there is very limited contact with nature or other horses – something we would love to change. Because of this, our sessions with Maria are especially valuable to us.
During the Gentle Horsemanship Training Method workshops, we clearly see how our horse becomes more curious and engaged. He shows real interest in the exercises and genuinely tries to understand what is being asked of him. It is amazing to observe how this kind of work strengthens our communication and deepens the trust between us.
We also notice how this connection positively affects his performance in show jumping. He feels calmer, more confident, and much more willing to trust his rider.
For us, Gentle Horsemanship is not just about training. It is about partnership, respect, and friendship.
We wholeheartedly recommend Maria’s seminars. She is a truly unique specialist.Alice, horse rider
I really love this approach and these workshops.
First of all, I want to highlight the strong scientific foundation behind them. Everything is explained from both a physiological and psychological perspective – how a horse’s brain works, what drives their reactions and behaviour, and how we should interact with them based on this knowledge to be truly effective.
During the seminars, many different aspects of working with horses are covered. For me, the groundwork block was especially important. Very often, when people talk about working with horses, they mainly think about riding. At the same time, many riders don’t really know how to handle a horse properly on the ground, or don’t realise that a lot of behavioural issues under saddle can actually be resolved through correct groundwork and in-hand work.
In many stables, groundwork and daily care are delegated to staff or grooms. These seminars helped me understand how crucial this part really is, and how much can be achieved through work on the ground. And then you see how much progress follows when you ride. It feels almost like magic – but in reality, it’s about understanding the horse, their needs, and being consistent.
What I really appreciated is the opportunity to learn, practise, observe others, notice common mistakes, try not to repeat them, and receive feedback. Overall, I would highly recommend these workshops – they are incredibly valuable and genuinely important.
I also want to add that if you have the opportunity to attend all the training modules, you absolutely should. Maria is a truly unique specialist, and each module doesn’t repeat the previous one – instead, it deepens your understanding and reveals different aspects of working with horses.Ann, horse owner
I have been around horses for over 20 years, since childhood. When I got my own horse, it became very important for me to understand how to care for her properly. Working with Maria changed a lot for me.
That was when I first learned about the holistic approach to horse care. Even without having significant resources, but by truly understanding the concept, I was able to reorganise my horse’s management in a way that made her feel healthier and happier.
I initially contacted Maria for hoof trimming. That was when she explained how important correct trimming is and how deeply a horse’s overall health depends on the condition of the hooves. My horse had a sport background and suffered from back pain, and Maria also worked with her as an osteopath. It was incredible to watch how the horse relaxed during the session. Once, after a treatment, she even lay down and fell asleep right in the middle of the arena – something that had never happened before.
Maria and her approach completely changed the way I understand how horses think and feel. This helped me build a deep connection with my horse and teach her many things without unnecessary pressure.
I truly and wholeheartedly recommend Maria and her method to everyone who loves horses.Taisia - horse lover
I’ve been in the equestrian world for 9 years, and all this time I never stop being amazed at what incredible creatures horses are ❤️
Despite this solid experience, many of my knowledge areas were not well structured, and Maria Petrova’s workshops helped me gain new insights and finally put everything into order. I am confident that Maria’s seminars will be beneficial for riders of any level!
On the one hand, Maria provides a lot of fundamental knowledge during her lectures – a true foundation that supports her entire approach. On the other hand, she demonstrates such subtle and remarkable aspects of interaction with horses that it genuinely feels like she can read their minds. Truly. She has an exceptionally deep understanding of equine psychology and physiology, as well as the many factors that influence a horse’s behavior and reactions. This allows her to explain nuances that hardly anyone else can.
I now feel much more confident with horses – both under saddle and in groundwork – and for that I am incredibly grateful to Maria. I wish everyone could experience that feeling when even a small action on your part makes a real difference in a horse’s behavior.
And besides being fascinating, informative, and educational, all of this takes place in a wonderful community of people who love horses just as much and share the same values.
About the Gentle Horsemanship Training Method WorkshopEver feel like you and your horse are speaking different languages?The Gentle Horsemanship Training Method seminars are designed to bridge that gap.
We move beyond quick fixes and address the root causes of behavioural and training issues, building a partnership based on clarity, trust, and mutual understanding.
This is a practical, experience-based approach where every interaction with the horse becomes meaningful.Who Leads the Seminars
Maria Petrova – Expert in Equine Science, Behaviour & Gentle Training MethodsMaria works with humane, science-based approaches to starting, training, and rehabilitating horses, grounded in a deep understanding of equine psychology.Her areas of expertise include:
• behavioural correction and gentle starting
• building trust between horse and human
• holistic horse management
• barefoot hoof trimming (Pete Ramey method)
• manual bodywork and myofascial releaseMaria holds a scientific degree in animal science, international instructor certification, and has developed her own training methodology through thousands of hours of hands-on practice since 2013.Philosophy:
The horse is a partner, not a tool.Who Are These Seminars ForThese seminars are designed for horse people ready to invest in a deeper level of horsemanship:• Horse owners seeking to resolve behavioural issues and improve communication
• Riders and amateurs who want to understand the “why” behind their horse’s reactions
• Competitors and athletes aiming to improve focus, motivation, and performance through psychological well-being
• Anyone who believes partnership should come before submissionWhat We Work On• Safety & Confidence
• Calm, clear handling that reduces risk for both horse and human
• Connection & Communication
• Reading equine body language and understanding mental and emotional states
• Problem Behaviour Solutions
• Pulling, spooking, buddy sourness, difficulty catching, resistance to grooming or saddling, biting, kicking, pawing, personal space issues
• Eliminating Stable Vices
• Weaving, cribbing (behavioural approach), stall walking, trailer loading resistance
• Effective Groundwork
• Purposeful work on the lunge and double lunge to develop balance, rhythm, and focus
• Motivation & Mental Well-being
• Preventing burnout and creating a willing, forward-thinking sport partnerProgram StructureThe program consists of three progressive, stand-alone modules.
You may join the full series or select individual modules.Module 1 — Foundation
Safety, Language & Trust from the Ground
Module 2 — Development
Gymnastics, Impulse & Preparation for Riding
Module 3 — Mastery
Solving Complex Cases & Special Techniques (Liberty)Each day combines concise theory with extensive hands-on practice.
Maria provides individual guidance and works directly with participant horses, including complex cases.Dates & Location
📍 Location: Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi
📅 Seminar Modules (Friday–Sunday):
• March 6–8
• March 13–15
• March 20–22
Weekdays between modules are available for private sessions, consultations, bodywork, and hoof trimming.Participation Formats & PricesFULL PARTICIPANT (per 3-day block)
• AED 1,800 — without stabling (working with our horses)
• AED 2,250 — with stabling (bringing your own horse)Includes:
• theory and hands-on practical work
• work with a horse
• communication and support between seminar weekends
Participants who book all three modules receive one month of online consultations with Maria Petrova after the seminars.AUDITOR (Observer)
• AED 250 per dayObservers attend all theory sessions and live demonstrations.
Hands-on work with horses is not included.Additional Expert Services
(Available separately, by appointment — on-site or at your stable)• Barefoot hoof trimming (Pete Ramey–based approach)
• Holistic horse care consultations (feeding, workload, management)
• Osteopathic / myofascial bodywork sessions
• Private practical training sessions:
– behavioural issues
– groundwork and lunging
– sport preparation
– individual problem-solving cases
• Online consultationsFeel free to contact us if you have further questions
Junior Horse Riding Camp
16–20 марта
2 часа ежедневно с понедельника по пятницу 9:00 – 11:00
для ребят 10+ (младше – по согласованию)
Location: Abu Dhabi, Al Bahyah
Уход за лошадьми: купание, чистка, седловка, расчистка копыт
Конная амуниция
Ведение в поводу
Основы верховой езды
Изучение психологии лошади
Наблюдение за лошадьми в табуне
Творческие мастер-классы
Игры
Общение с животными фермы
Фотосессии
и многое другое
ВедущиеЕлена Гусева — тренер по конному туризму, руководитель проекта “Подкованные каникулы” (20 лет опыта), фотографОльга Куликова — тренер, действующая спортсменка в троеборье, владелица лошадей (более 10 лет опыта)
Reviews
Полина, мама Кирилла (Март 2026)
Спасибо огромное за эту неделю ❤️ было очень спокойно, слажено и человечно))) дью ту карент ситуэйшн такие добрые классные истории очень важны❤️ спасибо огромное за организацию и поддержку 🥰Юлия, мама Кати (Март 2026)
Я спросила Катю про лагерь, отзыв ребенка: мне ни разу не было скучно, было интересно и я узнала много нового.
Мне как маме (а я присутствовала там каждый день) лагерь тоже понравился. У Кати не было опыта верховой езды и ухода за лошадьми, поэтому лагерь произвел на неё огромное впечатление, было много новой информации и разные виды активностей, и мне кажется оптимальным размер группы детей. И еще, что их разделили по уровням. Мы отлично провели время, спасибо!Марина, мама Веры (Март 2026)
Вера счастлива, хорошо провела время и с пользой. Так как случился перерыв в 2 года (занятиями верховой ездой), то считаю, что хорошо влилась обратно. Радует, что не растеряла навыки и хорошо держится в седле.
Спасибо за организацию!Оксана, мама Гриши (Март 2026)
Лагерь понравился Грише. Где еще можно поухаживать за большим живым существом, почистить, помыть, покормить. Григорий вдоволь и наобщался с животными и набрался опыта в верховой езде. Я вижу, как он растет профессионально. Спокойствие, выдержка и уверенность ведущих – качества необходимые тренеру в конном спорте, которые передаются и ученикам.Анастасия (Январь 2026):
Елена, большое спасибо, всей команде за такой интересный и познавательный конный лагерь ❤️
Алиса с радостью ходила каждый день, было видно внимание, заботу и профессиональный подход. Лошади 🫶 ухоженные, атмосфера спокойная и безопасная.
Получили много положительных эмоций и прекрасные воспоминания.
С удовольствием, при возможности, обязательно вернёмся снова 🐎🌿Палина (Январь 2026):
Спасибо огромное за создание такого замечательного пространства, где уютно, спокойно и благостно всем живым существам)))
За такую атмосферу отдельный поклон и благодарность! Организация на высшем уровне, держим кулачки за создание школы верховой езды)))