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Racing enthusiasts in the UAE are in for a treat as the Dubai World Cup returns to full capacity after the 2020 race meeting was cancelled and the 2021 event staged behind closed doors due to the pandemic.
The Meydan Racecourse is expected to be packed to its capacity of 80,000 in the 26th edition of the meeting that takes place on Saturday, March 26. What makes this edition extra special is the fact that the showpiece event's total purse has been raised to more than $30.5 million, up from $26.5m. Also, for the first time, all races offer at least $1m in prize money..
The highlight of the nine-race card is the $12 million Group 1 Dubai World Cup, a 2,000-metre contest run on the dirt surface.
Racegoers will be hoping to witness a dramatic race like last time when Mystic Guide from Godolphin’s American operation celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup with victory.
Sheikh Rashid bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, the Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, said: “We are so happy to have everyone back here for what will be a fantastic 26th running of the Dubai World Cup meeting. The atmosphere will be absolutely electrifying.
“The quality of the horses, trainers, owners and jockeys who have assembled is better than ever and we are looking forward to a superb day of racing with our guests from all over the world."
William Mott-trained Cigar won the inaugural race in 1996 and a quarter of a century later, the Dubai World Cup has risen to the summit of the racing calendar.
Ticket prices
Fans can witness the action with tickets starting at Dh50 for general admission. Other options are available for those seeking hospitality, while those attending will also gain entry to the closing ceremony and post-race concert that will feature Becky Hill, Rudimental and DJ Sigala.
Tickets for the Dubai World Cup can be purchased from the ticket office near Gate B at Meydan Racecourse or online at Dubairacingclub.com.
Date
The Dubai World Cup 2022 will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022.
Schedule
The first race of the Dubai World Cup starts at 3.45pm. Gates open from 12pm on race day, Saturday, March 26.
Racecard
- $6m Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic on turf run over 2,410 metres
- $5m Group 1 Dubai Turf (1,800m-turf)
- $2m Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen (1,200m-Dirt)
- $1.5m Group 1 Al Quoz Sprint (1,200m-T)
- $1m Group 2 Godolphin Mile (1,600m-D)
- $1m Group 2 UAE Derby (1,800m-D)
- $1m Dubai Gold Cup (3,200m-T)
- $1m Group 1 Dubai Kahayla Classic for the Purebred Arabians (2,000m-D)
- $12m Group 1 Dubai World Cup (2,000m-D)
Dress code
Although there is no formal dress code, the Dubai World Cup is one of the highlights of the UAE's sports and social calendars, so don't forget to dress up! Smart or decent casual attire is recommended. No flip flops please. Dubai Racing Club reserve the right to refuse entry to any person considered inappropriately dressed.
Venue and how to get there
The Dubai World Cup will be staged at the Meydan Racecourse.
By road
From Dubai or Abu Dhabi, on the Sheikh Zayed Road, take Exit 47, then turn onto Al Meydan Road D69 towards Nad Al Sheba, and follow the signs to Meydan Racecourse and The Meydan Hotel.
From Al Ain on Dubai-Al Ain Road, please take Exit 7, then take Nad Al Sheba direction on Al Meydan Road D69 (South) and follow the signs to Meydan Racecourse and The Meydan Hotel.
By taxi
The RTA operates a taxi service from the Meydan Racecourse and Grandstand with the drop-off and pick-up point located outside Gate B, a few steps away from the action.
Covid protocols
Racegoers will be required to adhere to Covid-19 related protocols mandated by the UAE government, which means visitors must wear face masks in all indoor areas of the venue.
