Intro
The Hadban Arabian is among the original, pure strains of desert-bred Arabian horse, these pure strains are also sometimes called Al Khamsa and Asil.
Origins
The term Al Khamsa translates to ‘The Five’, referring to mythology behind origins of the Arabian breed. Today the term Al Khamsa has a more grounded meaning and usually refers to a pedigreed animal, whose lineage can be traced. Only a small percentage of Arabian animals carry the distinction of being of pure desert-bred lineage and they can be found across a handful of countries
The Legend
The Al Khamsa legend has religious connotations, as the five foundation mares were Muhammad’s favorite. The story says that after a long trek through the desert, Muhammad freed his herd at an oasis to quench their thirst. As the animals were running towards the much needed water, he blew his battle horn, signaling the horses to return to his side. Only five of the mares returned to him, becoming his favorite of the herd. These five mares went on to spearhead the five strains of pure Al Khamsa. Bedouin prize their mares above all other animals, their lineage is matrilineal and purity of bloodlines is of supreme importance. To the point that if a mare is covered by an impure stallion, they and their future progeny can no longer be considered Asil.
The Five
Over the centuries, several Bedouin developed strains emerged. While attributed to the five foundation mares, they truly come from the careful and specialized breeding practices of the nomadic tribes that treasure them. Each strain carries its own physical characteristics and three of these strains are the most well known. The Kehilan has a more ‘masculine’ build, Seglawi more ‘feminine’ and Muniqi is the fast type.
Abayyan or Abeyan – light and refined, known for graceful movement and agility.
Dahman – a combination of beauty and strength, known for their athletic build and a good temper.
Hadban – larger and more muscular, they are powerful and known for endurance and hardiness.
Keheilan or Kuhaylan – strong with a compact build, considered the classic desert warhorse.
Muniqi or Muniqui – leaner and more angular, this strain is fast and fiery.
Saglawi or Seglawi – slender and refined, they are prized for their feminine beauty.
Hadban Strain
This strain is very similar to the Hamdani strain, but smaller in stature. They are considered a light saddle horse and they are reputed to be the most calm and kind of the pure blood strains. The strain was influenced by the Saglawi and Keheilan bloodlines.
Features
Average height 14.3-14.8 hands
Mane and tail hair is fine
Physique
Head is wedge-shaped and refined, with a concave profile
Muzzle is small with large nostrils
Eyes are large and expressive
Ears are short and curved
Neck is arched and high set
Chest is deep
Back is short
Body is compact
Legs are dry with solid joints
Hooves are small and hard
Tail is high set
Traditional Colors
Generally bay or brown, but can also be found in grey, chestnut and black
Temperament
Spirited but kind
Intelligent and loyal
Use
Enhancing other bloodlines
Racing
Pleasure
Showing
Endurance