At Gulf Buzz, we’re always out and about. Eating, exploring, discovering and experiencing some truly special places across Dubai and beyond. And sometimes, we come across something so memorable, so genuine, and so feel-good, that we have to share it detail to detail. That’s exactly why I’m here to launch a brand-new series called “The Girls of Gulf Buzz Recommend.” This series is all about places and experiences we’ve personally tried, genuinely loved, and would wholeheartedly recommend to you! No fluff, no forced hype, just honest reviews from us to you, highlighting not only the experience itself but also the amazing people behind it. Without further ado, for the first feature of this series I’m talking you somewhere in the outskirts of Dubai…
Also read: Abu Dhabi Is Opening Its First Ever Butterfly Garden – Here’s Everything To Know!
Welcome To Crystalline Equine
This January, the girls of Gulf Buzz headed out to Al Ruwaiyah, Dubai, for a truly one-of-a-kind experience at Crystalline Equine. An equestrian club unlike anything we’ve experienced before. Instead of a typical wellness session, this one came with a very special twist – yoga and sound healing surrounded by horses. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt calm, grounding, and quietly magical. As the sun set, we prepared for an evening that turned out to be both soothing and deeply moving.
Meeting The Horses (AKA The Best Part)
Before the session began, Joy, the owner of Crystalline Equine, warmly welcomed us and introduced us to the horses who would be sharing the space with us during the evening. From majestic stallions to gentle, curious souls, each horse had its own presence and personality. The absolute highlight of the night for all of us? A miniature horse named Patiti Habibi, who completely stole our hearts. Safe to say, he became the unofficial star of the night and gave us plenty of smiles before the session even started.
Why Horses & Healing Go Hand In Hand
Joy explained something that really stayed with us. Horses naturally carry a healing energy and help raise the vibration of any space they’re in. That’s exactly why she felt yoga and sound healing would work beautifully alongside them. Crystalline Equine is home to over 150 horses, and for these sessions, Joy carefully chooses three to four of the most friendly and calm horses to be present, ensuring both comfort and safety for everyone involved.
A Calm, Comfortable & Safe Setup
If the idea of doing yoga around horses sounds a little intimidating, but don’t worry, everything is thoughtfully set up. The yoga platform is placed between two arenas, meaning the horses are close enough to feel their presence, but never overwhelming. If a horse wanders over to the fence, you can gently pet them. If not, you’re still at a very safe and comfortable distance to fully focus on your practice. And for those wondering if you’ll enough time with the horses, you’ll get all the best opportunities to pet them at the end of the session.
Yoga, Sound Healing & True Stillness
The session ran from 7pm to 8pm and included a series of yoga poses focused on basic mobility and core strength. Which made it a lot more accessible for us considering we were all pretty much stumbling over ourselves. Let’s just say balance isn’t our strong suit, (so be glad we’re sticking to give you guys the best recommendations in town). Following the yoga, our instructor Lola guided us through a deeply calming sound healing experience. Through soothing sounds and gentle guidance, she led us into a mental space of relaxation, stillness and presence. Honestly, with how fast paced 2026 is already getting (considering we just wrapped up New Year’s) this was a rare but much needed chance for all of us to truly slow down and just be.
A True Fairytale Come To Life
During the evening, Joy shared the story of one of her horses that truly moved us. He was once a competition horse, but after suffering a severe leg injury, his previous owners abandoned him, deciding he was no longer “useful.” He was left alone, confined in a tight box, and forgotten. When Joy found him, she didn’t see a broken competition horse. She saw a kind soul in need of care, love and a safe home. She rescued him, nurtured him, and gave him a life where he is valued simply for being who he is. Today, at Crystalline Equine, that horse is loved every single day. And knowing his story made our experience feel even more meaningful.
Spending Time With The Horses, No Rushing Required
Another thing we loved? Once the session ends, there’s no rush to leave. You’re welcome to spend as much time as you like with the horses. Petting them, bonding with them, and simply soaking in the calm energy of the space. It’s the perfect way to close out such a peaceful evening. And yes, the horses are very open to getting their pictures taken. So go on and take a selfie or two, just remember to get their good side.
Our Honest Recommendation
Emotionally, mentally and physically, this experience touched us on so many levels. Between the calming yoga, the powerful sound healing, the gentle presence of the horses, and the heart behind Crystalline Equine itself, it’s something we genuinely believe more people need to experience. That’s why, as the very first feature in The Girls of Gulf Buzz Recommend, we truly, wholeheartedly recommend it enough.
How To Book Your Spot
If you’d like to be part of one of Crystalline Equine’s upcoming yoga and sound healing sessions, you can DM them directly on Instagram @crystallineequine or visit their website to get more information and book your place!
Trust us, it’s magic you need to experience for yourself.
