Doha – Rabat witnessed on Monday the signing of a significant partnership agreement to preserve and develop Tbourida, Morocco’s traditional equestrian art form that was recognized by UNESCO in 2021 as part of humanity’s intangible cultural heritage.
The agreement brings together four key institutions: the State Secretariat for Crafts and Social Economy, the Royal Society for Horse Encouragement (SOREC), the Craftsman’s House, and the National Association of Traditional Equestrian Arts – Tbourida.
Agriculture Minister Ahmed Bouari attended the signing ceremony.
The partnership aims to protect Morocco’s equestrian heritage by focusing on knowledge transfer and developing traditional crafts associated with this ancestral art.
According to State Secretary Lahcen Essaadi, the initiative will particularly support artisans who create essential Tbourida equipment, including embroidery, sewing, ironwork, and leatherwork.
“This agreement focuses on preserving the artisanal heritage associated with Tbourida, supporting craftsmen in this field to strengthen their skills and expertise, improving product quality and safety standards, and enhancing marketing opportunities,” Essaadi stated during the ceremony.
SOREC Director General Omar Skalli emphasized the collective commitment to protecting this heritage, noting that specialized training programs and incentive grants have been launched to help artisans develop their skills while maintaining artistic authenticity.
The partnership includes the establishment of two distinction awards: a National Prize to be awarded at the El Jadida Horse Show for outstanding artisans specializing in Tbourida-related products, and a Regional Prize for the best “sarbates” (teams of riders) based on the quality of their traditional equipment.
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Traditionally, Tbourida performances involve groups of 15 to 25 riders and horses lined side by side, led by a central commander.
The display consists of two main parts: the “hadda” (a greeting parade with acrobatic weapon handling) and the “talqa” (a simulated collective departure for war featuring blank gunfire).
Riders wear period costumes including turbans, draped clothing, and traditional babouches, while horses are decorated with traditionally sewn and decorated equipment.
The agreement is part of the State Secretariat’s 2025 action plan, focusing on developing and marketing artisanal products, strengthening human capital, and promoting events related to this traditional equestrian art.
It also aims to structure the entire value chain and support various sector stakeholders.
National Association of Traditional Equestrian Arts President Yassine Oukacha noted that the partnership will facilitate skill transmission and sector development while establishing new quality labels and updating existing ones to ensure product quality and support both artisans and riders.
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