Dubai Racing Carnival cements global status in horse racing

March 28, 2026 / 11:06 PM

Sharjah24-WAM: The Dubai Racing Carnival has strengthened its status as a major event on the international equestrian calendar, acting as the primary gateway to the esteemed Dubai World Cup.

Horse racing in Dubai began in 1981 at the Camel Track, organised under the auspices of His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This resulted in the founding of the Dubai Racing Club in 1992 and the opening of Nad Al Sheba Racecourse.

The launch of the Dubai World Cup in 1996, won by American legend Cigar, marked a significant milestone for UAE sport on the international stage.

Meydan as a world-class racing hub

Since 2010, Meydan Racecourse has hosted the Carnival and Dubai World Cup. Covering 7.5 million square metres with a capacity of over 60,000 spectators, Meydan is the world’s largest integrated racing facility, featuring advanced turf and dirt tracks, the Meydan Hotel, and state-of-the-art stables.

Global participation and competitive excellence

The Carnival runs across 12 to 16 race nights during winter, offering prize money worth tens of millions of dollars. It attracts elite stables from Europe, the Americas, Asia and Australia, providing a key preparation stage for international contenders.

Trainer Helal Al Alawi described the Carnival as a cornerstone of Dubai’s ambition to stay a leading global racing hub, while British trainer Ed Crisford highlighted its prestige, noting his team’s success with “Meydaan,” owned by Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Trainer George Scott also praised Meydan’s track conditions, citing record-breaking performances such as “Westlake” in the Nad Al Sheba Turf.