Your first riding lesson will depend on your riding level. We will assess your knowledge, experience, and level of comfort. If you are taking riding lessons for the first time, our first priority is helping you be safe and comfortable around horses. We will show you around the stables, introduce you to your horse, teach you how to groom and tack up and start with the basics of riding.

For riders with previous experience, your first lesson is a great opportunity for us to assess your riding skills. Whether you want to jumping, dressage, compete or just have fun in the saddle, we will discuss your goals and plan your lessons accordingly.  

Before your first ride, you want to have proper attire and make sure to have your paperwork complete. When you visit the stable, you will have to read and sign our liability release form and the code of conduct. We also have a handout about some of the important “need to know”  items for visiting the stable and starting riding lessons. Those people who want to read about how we do things at The Alia Alassaf Academy, can read our “Operations & Procedures Manual” . All students should read the sections about riding. 

We offer private, semi-private and group lessons.

Most people take one lesson per week to be recreational riders. Those who want to be more serious about riding will take two lessons per week.

We teach year round. We have an excellent surface arena, we teach trough the warm summer months and the colder winter months. We rarely cancel lessons due to the weather. We have lessons five days a week, taking Sundays and Mondays off from teaching. Because the majority of our students are either in school or working during the week, most of our teaching is done from 2 PM through to 6 PM, Tuesday through Thursday, and then all day Friday and Saturday from 8 AM through 12PM and 2 PM until about 6 PM.

Our recommended minimum age for our regular lesson program is 3 years. As long as you are physically in a state that enables you to ride, it is possible to start riding.  Unsure if your child is old enough or if you are yourself too old? We love to meet you and look for possibilities!

Safety is our first priority. For that reason we require all riders to have their own properly fitted helmet. If you do not have a helmet we can provide you a helmet to use or contact us before your first lesson and we will refer you to some great places in the area. Similarly we can recommend places to get boots, breeches and other clothing. If you do not have equestrian attire, you can get started with boots that have a heel, and comfortable stretchy pants.

We have a wonderful group of horses for all ages and experience levels and will pair you with a horse that suits your needs.

You are welcome to visit us for a tour. Please contact us first so we can choose a time we are available between lessons and caring for the horses.

All lessons are done by appointment, usually scheduled a week in advance.

Members are able to pay for lessons cash at the office or through bank transfer.

Absolutely – many of our students do! All riders who wish to compete must ride a minimum of 2 times a week. We would be happy to discuss your goals.

Whole year round we offer special events such as camps, fun on the farm days, field trips. Each year is different so contact us for updated information or see our socials for the latest news.

We don’t have a maximum age limit for riding but you should be in good physical health.

Our current weight limit is 80kg (including hat and boots) and we adjust that according to the horses we have in work. Each horse has its own individual weight limit.

We have a selection of qualified instructors who have successfully completed the study of equine sports in the Netherlands.

We two different options:

• Group lessons: 220 JOD for a package of 10. We offer small group lessons with 3-6 students for dressage or jumping.
• Private lessons: 250 JOD for a package of 10. These 30 minutes lessons are tailored for your specific riding goals.

No. We do not give refunds.

Please cancel via Whatsapp or call us on 0795553000 and let us know that you can’t make it. Please try to let us have at least 24 hours notice after that you will be charged for the lesson.

It can be. A horse’s behavior can be unpredictable and even the most highly trained can sometimes react in an unexpected way. We do our best to minimize risk but horses do have their own minds.

We do everything we can to keep our riders safe: Our horses and ponies are carefully selected for their temperament. All of our instructors are trained in the safe conduct of lessons. We have First Aid trained staff available at all times

Yes. In the event of rain or cold weather, lessons will continue as scheduled unless you are informed otherwise by the academy office. Should weather conditions become unsafe for horses or riders, we will notify you in advance of any changes or cancellations.

We do not offer trial lessons or single riding lessons. All riders enroll in one of our 10-lesson packages. During your first lesson, our instructor will assess your riding level and discuss your personal goals. This approach allows us to provide consistent, high-quality instruction and support your long-term progress.

Our lesson duration depends on the type of lesson you choose:

• Private lessons: 30 minutes of one-on-one instruction, tailored to your individual goals and riding level.
• Semi-private lessons: 30 minutes of instruction in a small group of two riders, combining personalized guidance with the motivation and enjoyment of riding together.
• Group lessons: 45 minutes in a supportive and enjoyable learning environment.

Lesson times include horse preparation when applicable, riding instruction, and feedback from your instructor, ensuring a complete and educational experience for every rider.

Yes. It is never too late to learn to ride. We offer lessons for both children and adults, whether you are starting for the first time or returning to riding after many years.

For your first lesson, we recommend wearing comfortable long trousers or riding breeches and closed-toe shoes with a small heel. If you have your own riding boots and helmet, you are welcome to bring them. Helmets are available at the academy for riders who do not have their own.

Absolutely. Our lessons are suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced riders. Our instructors will assess your current level and tailor each lesson to help you develop safely and confidently.

No. The academy provides well-trained school horses suitable for riders of different levels. Riders who own their own horse are also welcome to train with us.