RIYADH — The World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) has announced the official self-certification of Saudi Arabia as free from dourine, a disease that affects horses. The recognition followed the Kingdom’s successful compliance with WOAH’s internationally approved standards and requirements for declaring countries free of animal diseases. The WOAH explained that this recognition followed a comprehensive evaluation of the technical file submitted by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases, (Weqaa Center), which documented the epidemiological surveillance mechanisms, the accuracy of field surveys, and the robust precautionary measures implemented across various regions of Saudi Arabia. This recognition confirms the continued success of national strategic plans aimed at protecting the equine sector and developing the veterinary system. It is expected to positively enhance the Kingdom’s ability to host international equestrian championships and support the horse racing sector in Saudi Arabia. The international recognition also highlights the advanced level of veterinary services in the Kingdom, while underscoring the competence of national personnel and the reliability of preventive measures in reducing transboundary diseases and safeguarding livestock. It is noteworthy that dourine is a contagious, fatal sexually transmitted disease affecting horses, donkeys, and other equids, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma equiperdum. The WOAH declared Saudi Arabia is free of equine viral arteritis this year, and last year declared it free of several equine diseases, including glanders, equine anemia, and African horse sickness. This reflects the efficiency of the veterinary procedures and surveys implemented by Saudi Arabia in accordance with international standards and confirms its leadership and reliability in protecting animal health, thereby supporting its hosting of major equestrian championships and horse races.