Saudi Arabia declared free of dourine in horses by global animal health body
WOAH has officially recognized Saudi Arabia as free from dourine in horses after the Kingdom met all international standards.
Key Takeaways
AIThe World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) announced on Wednesday that Saudi Arabia has been officially recognized as free from dourine, a disease affecting horses, after the Kingdom fully met globally approved systems and standards.
The organization said this recognition followed a thorough review of the technical dossier submitted by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa), which documented epidemiological surveillance methods, the accuracy of field surveys, and strict precautionary measures implemented across all regions of the Kingdom.
This accreditation reflects the success of national strategic plans to protect Saudi Arabia’s equine sector and develop its veterinary system, enhancing the Kingdom’s ability to host major international equestrian championships and supporting the local horse racing industry.
The international recognition also highlights the advanced level of veterinary services in Saudi Arabia, the competence of national personnel, and the reliability of preventive measures in limiting cross-border diseases and safeguarding animal resources.
Ongoing international recognition of Saudi efforts
WOAH also announced earlier this year that Saudi Arabia is free from equine viral arteritis, and last year recognized the Kingdom’s freedom from several other equine diseases, including glanders, equine infectious anemia, and African horse sickness.
These achievements demonstrate the effectiveness of Saudi Arabia’s veterinary procedures and surveys in line with international standards, confirming its leadership and reliability in animal health protection and supporting its hosting of major equestrian events and horse races.