The Arab-Barb, Morocco’s most widespread horse

With around 60,000 identified horses according to SOREC, the Arab-Barb makes up, together with the Barb, the bulk of Morocco’s horse population. You will find it in Tbourida troupes, on equestrian rallies and in breeding shows. Here is a portrait of a horse that brings together the best of two great breeds.

Two heritages combined

The Arab-Barb is the result of crossing the Purebred Arabian with the Barb, two emblematic breeds of the Maghreb and the Arab world. Its history is tied to that of Arab horsemen, their caravans and their campaigns across the Middle East and North Africa. According to SOREC, the Barb was widespread in North Africa in the 8th century, before the Arabian breed developed and crosses between the two became common.

From the Barb it inherits power, hardiness and composure; from the Arabian, refinement, liveliness and stamina.

Conformation

Like the Barb, the Arab-Barb stands between 1.45 m and 1.60 m at the withers, but its build is more harmonious. Look for:

• a fine, expressive head, often with a concave or straight profile;
• expressive eyes and upright, alert ears;
• a supple, elegant neck and well-defined withers;
• a deep, well-developed chest and lean muscle;
• dry, sturdy legs.

A born partner

Docile, intelligent and brave, the Arab-Barb is a saddle horse valued for its versatility. It copes well with varied climates and difficult terrain, which makes it a dependable mount both out on the trail and in competition.

Its disciplines

• Tbourida, which showcases its intelligence and bravery;
• endurance, trail riding and equestrian rallies;
• conformation and gaits shows, dressage and presentations;
• polo and leisure riding.

Our Arab-Barbs at the stud

At El Adiyat we breed Arab-Barbs selected for their conformation, gaits and bloodlines: the stallion Nawrass Sahel and the mares Rawdat Almarwa and Naifia. Nawrass Sahel has sired several of our 2026 foals.

Torn between the two breeds? Our guide Barb or Arab-Barb compares them.