Ride to Rescue, a sanctuary at the foot of Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains, provides a haven for abandoned, neglected, or disabled horses that face euthanasia, along with donkeys and cats. Founded by Yasmin Sayyed, the shelter currently cares for 29 horses, including Pebbles, a white pony with black spots who may be the oldest pony in the UAE at 41 years old. The sanctuary focuses on animals that others have given up on, often rescuing them just hours before euthanasia, and offers therapeutic interactions through gentle hiking experiences. Despite its vital role, Ride to Rescue struggles financially, with monthly expenses around Dh80,000–Dh90,000 and debts totaling Dh250,000, threatening its ability to continue operations.
The shelter’s income is limited, relying mainly on visitor hikes and modest monthly sponsorships, which are insufficient to cover costs. Sayyed emphasizes the need for broader community support to sustain the sanctuary and its mission. Beyond rescue, Ride to Rescue also educates horse owners on proper care and hosts community events, striving to improve equine welfare in the UAE. Despite criticism and financial hardship, Sayyed remains committed to providing care and dignity to horses in need, ensuring those that cannot be saved still receive compassionate end-of-life care.
