Our Bedouin Legacy

Born and raised in Wadi Rum..to my Bedouin « Swelhen » Family that has lived in Wadi Rum over 140 years, Part of the greater Huwaitaat tribe (of Laurence fame). 

As part of my heritage an innate love of the unique beauty of the area our Bedouin culture &their strong association with the Arabian horse: Inevitably my love of these animals led me to work with them and Wadi Rum horses has now been established for over 30 Years.

In 1991 at the age of 17 by chance I met up with a French couple riding through Wadi Rum, this meeting eventually led me to study with them at their base in France at the « A HUE  ET A DIA  » center in Sommant – en – Marvan, France, under the watchful eye of Mr. Jean-de-Chatillon.

I improved my skills and became officially certified in all aspects of horse care and furriery especially important as there is no vet or blacksmith facilities anywhere near Wadi Rum. The general overall training in equestrianism during this time proved invaluable in learning not only how to ensure the safety and care of my horses but my « Riders » and their needs as well.

During my time there we trained horses for endurance and long distance trekking trips. Subsequently over the years I have competed successfully in endurance events both internationally & nationally, winning & qualifying in numerous 120km &160km endurance races.

My dear horse Sasha having gone through the tough qualifying procedure to qualify for the 2011 World Championship in Kentucky.

Following my time in France I reorganized my Wadi Rum Stable & added together with my wife a small specialized farm and became the first professional horse guide in Jordan with safety & horse welfare a priority.

Our horses are all locally bred, either pure bred Arabian or cross bred local Bedouin Arabian and are chosen for their physical toughness and mental tractability. 

Dealing with horses is more than just a hobby nor just a job for me , it is a passion !….Luckily this love of horses has been handed down to my children who now actively help, not only in the day to day running of the center but with my eldest son Suleman  now experienced enough to lead groups independently.

Atallah Al.Swelhen