Egypt Equine Aid (EEA) is a UK-based charity founded in 2011 with a mission to improve the welfare of working horses, donkeys, and mules in Egypt. The organization was established by a group of individuals passionate about alleviating the suffering of these animals, many of which are subjected to harsh conditions and neglect. EEA provides vital veterinary care, rehabilitation, and education to local communities about proper animal care. The charity operates through a combination of mobile clinics, local partnerships, and direct interventions, addressing issues like malnutrition, disease, and physical abuse. By empowering local communities with knowledge and resources, Egypt Equine Aid not only helps improve the quality of life for these animals but also fosters long-term change in attitudes toward animal welfare. Their efforts have made a significant impact in areas such as Cairo and Luxor, where working equines are essential to local economies.

Scale of the problem:

I cannot begin to describe the scale of the problem , as there are no animal welfare laws in Egypt so some locals in the tourism industry are using horses to take tourists to the pyramids and neglecting and abusing 10s of thousands of horses/donkeys annually they are on the brink of death.

Egypt Equine Aid operates in a challenging environment where its efforts, though crucial, can from some points of view create a vicious circle. The charity often purchases abused horses to provide immediate relief, offering veterinary care, rehabilitation, and a chance for a better life. However, the money spent to rescue these animals can inadvertently contribute to the cycle of abuse, as it’s used to buy more horses where the owners who may not understand the importance of proper care or are struggling to meet the needs of their animals will continue mistreating animals. Despite this, EEA continues to work tirelessly, focusing on helping the animals they can, one case at a time. Their intervention not only addresses immediate suffering but also raises awareness about the mistreatment of equines in Egypt. Long-term solutions, however, lie in changing the broader system—especially by educating local communities and tourists about the welfare of working animals. One of EEA’s goals is to increase awareness, particularly among tourists who may unknowingly support businesses that exploit these animals. Ultimately, they hope that through education, advocacy, and ongoing care, the laws surrounding animal welfare in Egypt will improve, leading to better protection for equines and breaking the cycle of abuse once and for all. I think it is extremely important that tourists especially visiting places such as Egypt are educated on the subject as not to feed into it.

EEA Website