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“Weqaa” Announces Kingdom Officially Free of Equine Infectious Anemia

“Weqaa” Announces Kingdom Officially Free of Equine Infectious Anemia

July 27, 2025 by
“Weqaa” Announces Kingdom Officially Free of Equine Infectious Anemia
مدير المنصة (AD)

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has officially recognized the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as free from Equine Infectious Anemia. This recognition is based on the technical evaluation conducted by the organization of the Kingdom’s submission, prepared by the National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plants Pests and Animal Diseases “Weqaa”, which meets the approved international standards and requirements for declaring countries free of epidemic animal diseases. Weqaa Center announced the Kingdom’s official disease-free status as a reflection of the significant efforts led by Saudi Arabia in collaboration with various partners and international and regional organizations. These efforts affirm the Kingdom’s strong commitment to monitoring environmental health risks and ensuring the safety of its animal wealth, thereby strengthening its global standing in relation to equine diseases that may impact horse mobility and competitions. Dr. Sanad bin Salem Al Harbi, Head of the Animal Health Sector at Weqaa Center, affirmed that this international recognition reflects the effectiveness of the veterinary procedures adopted in the Kingdom. It also supports enhanced trade exchange through the review and endorsement of veterinary health certificates in line with the latest international standards. He added that the Center continues to protect animal wealth through proactive monitoring programs aimed at reducing the spread of epidemic diseases. These efforts also contribute to the advancement of veterinary health and care and further solidify the Kingdom’s regional and global positioning. Dr. Al Harbi noted the Center’s ongoing commitment to monitoring all international indicators related to animal diseases, including those affecting the equine family, in support of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to promote horse racing and competition, paving the way for global leadership in the field. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is the global authority on animal health. It was established in 1924 under the name Office International des Epizooties (OIE). In May 2003, the organization adopted its current name to reflect its role as an intergovernmental body focused on promoting transparency in reporting animal diseases and improving animal health worldwide, contributing to a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world. ​