Come Saturday March 30, there’ll be thunder on the racetracks as horses jockey for winning spot at the Dubai World Cup. The major event is one of the biggest in the sporting calendar and it is back for its 28th edition – and you are invited to watch.
Held at the Meydan Racecourse, the Dubai World Cup is more than watching a prized steed gallop to the finish line it’s also dressing up all fancy and socialising.
Basically, it’s a really, really fun day out.
What exactly is the Dubai World Cup?
On Saturday March 30, the end-of-season finale to the Dubai World Cup Carnival will bring weeks of high-intensity racing to a close.
The Dubai World Cup was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 1996 at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, but has been held at Meydan since 2006.
Last year, the main event was won by Japanese rider Yuga Kawada on Ushba Tesoro. The horse was the first Japanese winner of the Dubai World Cup since Victoire Pisa in 2011.
The first race will begin at 3.30pm.
It’s worth quite a lot of money, right?
Well, it is one of the biggest (and richest) days of horseracing in the world. Dhs112 million is up for grabs across the nine races on World Cup Day and the main race offers a purse of Dhs44 million.
Does that mean tickets are mighty expensive too?
Surprisingly, no. You can get in for just Dhs20. The ticket will get you access to the outdoor grandstand seating as well as the interior food court on the Mezzanine Floor.
But you could take fancier packages too; for Dhs295, for instance, you can book tickets for Apron Views. You’ll get access to various restaurant and bar pop-ups, as well as a prime position for people watching.
This is also home to the Style Stakes – a fashion competition for the best dressed. Glamorous racegoers can compete for huge cash prizes in five categories; Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Man, Best Dressed Couple, Best Traditional Outfit and Best Hat.
If you are willing to shell out some extra cash, other experiences await including restaurant, VIP packages and suites.
Do I need to be an equestrian expert to have a good time?
Not at all. You could be horse-mad, but even if you aren’t and just want to do something a bit different – dress up and have a good time – you’ll like it here.
Is there a dress code then?
More is more at the races. Forget flip- flops, trainers, denim and shorts (they aren’t allowed anyway) and embrace your inner diva. Prizes of more than Dhs200,000 are up for grabs if you register for the Style Stakes best-dressed competition. This is the time to go for giant, complicated hats. Men, suit up. This outing will be legendary.
Where can we eat at the Dubai World Cup?
If you are fasting, Sky Bubble is hosting an iftar for Dhs595. The Gallery, meanwhile, offers a brunch with a great view of the finish line and the closing ceremony for Dhs950.
There are other options too, such as The Terrace, which includes an expansive outdoor seating area that extends from the centre of the Grandstand to the end, giving you the option to switch locations (and get better views) throughout the day. This experience will set you back Dhs2,200.
Do I need to book tickets for the Dubai World Cup?
Yes, you do. At dubairacingclub.com.
What if I’m driving?
You could drive here or take a taxi, Uber of Careem. If you are bringing your vehicle and travelling from Dubai or Abu Dhabi on Sheikh Zayed Road, take Exit 47 from Sheikh Zayed Road and follow the Nad Al Sheba direction, then turn right onto Al Meydan Road (D69) and follow the signs to Meydan Racecourse and Grandstand.
If you are headed to the race course from Al Ain on Dubai-Al Ain Road, take Exit 7 from Dubai-Al Ain Road and follow the Nad Al Sheba direction, then turn onto Al Meydan Road (D69) and follow the signs to Meydan Racecourse and Grandstand.
You will need to buy a ticket for Dhs80 for grandstand parking.
Can I bring the fam?
Have a pony-mad kid? Bring them along. It’s a suitable event for all the family. Children over the age of two will need a ticket. Remember to bring sunscreen as it’s mostly outdoors.
Is the area wheelchair accessible?
Yes! There is access to the Meydan Grandstand from the Mezzanine Levels for People of Determination. Lifts are available on all floors to take guests to their desired area. Let the ticket office agents know of your concerns while booking and they’ll advise accessible seating.
What else is happening?
The evening traditionally ends with a massive fireworks show.
From Dhs20. Sat Mar 30, first race at 3.30pm. Meydan Racecourse, Nad Al Sheba, dubairacingclub.com.
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