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.
Abayyan or Abeya – light and refined, known for graceful movement and agility.
Hamdani – a masculine type, which heavier and possessing powerful athletic ability.
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.
Saglawi or Seglawi – slender and refined, they are prized for their feminine beauty.
Hamdani Strain
One of the most celebrated of strains, this is a ‘rougher’, more masculine type. They are considered the most athletic, with larger bones and a robust nature. They are notable because the Hamdani strain is thought to possess foundational genetics for the Arabian breed as a whole. They are the grandfather of this prolific desert horse.
Its large head has a rectilinear profile and open noxaux, its neck is muscular, its tourniquet is marked, its back is very solid, its rump is rounded, its dry limbs are healthy, its joints are large and its hooves are solid.
Features
Average height 14.6-15.5 hands
Skin and coat are thin
Mane and tail hairs are silky
Physique
Head is large with a straight profile
Neck is muscular
Back is solid
Hindquarters are rounded
Legs are dry, with large joints
Hooves are solid
Traditional Colors
Generally bay, brown or grey, but can also be found in chestnut and black
Temperament
Calm and dependable
Athletic and brave
Use
Enhancing other bloodlines
Riding
Sport horse