Going to the races in Dubai is a must-visit for both tourists and residents alike! It is one of my favourite activities in Dubai, even as someone who first moved to Dubai 11 years ago, I thoroughly enjoy a day at the races!
Dubai really knows how to put on a show, and when it comes to horse racing events in Dubai, it’s no different! Home to some of the most prestigious horse races in the world, Dubai combines luxury with adrenaline for an exhilarating yet comfortable experience.
I’ll give you the inside scoop of what Dubai horse racing events there are, along with best ticket options and insider tips!
Dubai horse racing events
Dubai is home to some of the world’s most prestigious horse racing events, attracting global talent and enthusiasts.
Dubai Racing Carnival is a series of elite races that showcase top-tier horses, jockeys, and trainers weekly in Dubai. Taking place at the famous Meydan Racecourse along with themed events.
The majority of events are held over winter with a few events going into the spring, from November and culminating with the Dubai World Cup at the end of the season in March or April.
The Dubai World Cup is the second largest horse racing prize in the world, with total prize money of $12 million USD and has only recently been overtaken by the Saudi Cup with total prizes of $20 million USD.
Jebel Ali Racecourse hosts more intimate racing events in a relaxed setting along with themed event through out the year as well.
Dubai Meydan Horse Racing
The largest and most well known horse racecourse in Dubai is the Meydan Racecourse.
Meydan Racecourse is a world-renowned horse racing venue in Dubai, known for its cutting-edge design and hosting the prestigious Dubai World Cup. It first opened in 2010, replacing Ned Al Sheba racecourse.
The racecourse features a 2,400-meter turf track and a 1,750-meter dirt track, making it ideal for hosting top-tier international races.
Its iconic grandstand is one of the largest in the world and can accommodate up to 60,000 spectators.
Beyond racing, Meydan boasts fine dining restaurants, luxury suites, and even a hotel, making it a hub for sports, entertainment, and hospitality. It’s a must-visit for horse racing enthusiasts and a symbol of Dubai’s love for world-class events.
Here is also the Meydan Hotel, a luxury 5 star hotel, situated with views over the stunning racecourse and views of Downtown Dubai. I’ve stayed at the hotel before and was a stunning experience.
Dubai Racing Carnival
The Dubai Racing Carnival is a prestigious series of horse racing events held annually at Meydan Racecourse, leading up to the iconic Dubai World Cup.
Taking place from November to March, the carnival attracts top horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the globe, competing in high-stakes races on both turf and dirt tracks along with world-class hospitality.
There are different themes of the Carnival such as Fashion Friday, Festive Friday and Emirates Super Saturday.
Dubai Racing Tickets available
- General Public
- Trackside by McGettigans
- Parade Ring Lounge
- Paddock View
- Winner’s Circle Restaurant
The Parade Ring Lounge has discounted for ladies on the last Friday of every month, where they can get a house beverage for package for less.
Also, it’s not very clear on their website, but for both Parade Ring Lounge and Winner’s Circle, you must buy a soft drinks package for all children over the age of two.
You can also get private suites and corporate areas which are bookable for events.
Pick 7 and Lucky Draw
With all tickets, you’ll get the opportunity to fill out the ‘Pick 7’ form. This form is given as you first enter, past the ticket barriers and allows you to guess which horses will come 1st, 2nd and 3rd.
The free-to-play horse racing competition is run every Dubai Carnival and during the Dubai World Cup. It’s called ‘Pick 7’ since it features seven races.
If you guess correctly, you’ll get a chance to win large cash prizes. Gambling is illegal in the UAE, instead, everyone who purchases an entry ticket has a free entry to the competition.
It’s a fun and engaging way for racing enthusiasts to test their knowledge and luck!
In addition to the Pick 7 competition, you also have the lucky draw where one lucky ticket winner will win a car or an additional cash prize.
General Public Tickets
If you like being right in the action, the general admission is a great experience right next to the track in the apron area, it doesn’t include any food or drinks. However, they can be purchased separately from the food court.
These tickets offer the most affordable and accessible way to experience the excitement of world-class racing. You’ll still get views of the track and to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, but seating is lacking. So it’s best for those who don’t mind standing while watching the races.
You’ll be able to enter the ‘Pick 7’ competition along with the lucky draw for cash prizes. However, it doesn’t include the car lucky draw. Children under 5 are free.
Trackside by McGettigan’s
Trackside by McGettigan’s is a lively venue and offers a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy Dubai’s horse races, located on the ground floor.
If you want a laid-back vibe filled with Irish hospitality, this is the perfect spot for you. It’s also family-friendly with a kid’s play area plus arts and crafts. Perfect for families who want a more affordable day at the races.
Food and drinks are available for purchase inside the venue and more seating is available compared to the general admission with a large picnic area outside. You can expect hearty pub food and your typical pub beverages. You can also add a drinks package which offers unlimited drinks from 6 pm till 9pm.
You’ll get entry to all the lucky draws and the ‘Pick 7’ competition with this ticket. All children must purchase a kid’s ticket and be accompanied by an adult.
Parade Ring Lounge
Also located on the ground floor, The Parade Ring Lounge offers a luxurious and exclusive setting to enjoy the thrill of horse racing in style.
Overlooking the parade ring, you’ll see an up-close view of the horses as they prepare for the races and after with the winners. You’ll feel right in the heart of the action.
The lounge features premium seating and an international buffet. However, seating is based on a first-come, first-serve basis, so it’s best to get there early to ensure you get a table!
You can choose from a soft drink or house beverage package, included in the ticket.
This ticket also includes entry to all the lucky draws and the ‘Pick 7’ competition. Children over 2 need to buy a soft beverage package ticket. Under 2 are free.
Paddock View
The Paddock View area is located on the 1st floor, combining an excellent vantage point for watching the races. The restaurant features an indoor area and outdoor terrace overlooking the Parade Ring and Winner’s Circle.
This option has dedicated seating, so no need to worry you won’t find a table! Plus you’ll enjoy a delicious international buffet with live cooking stations, ideal for those wanting to upgrade their racing experience.
There’s also the option for a soft drink package or house beverage package with the ticket price.
With this ticket, you’ll also get entry to all the lucky draws and the ‘Pick 7’ competition. Children below 5 are free while ages 5 to 12 have discounted tickets.
Winner’s Circle
The Winner’s Circle Restaurant, sits on the 2nd floor of Meydan Racecourse and offers a full panoramic view of the race track. Great for those who like to see everything that is going on but a bit further away from the action.
It’s your choice either before the meal or after if you wish to go down and into the Winner’s circle, which is one advantage of this premium ticket. However, children aren’t allowed in the Winner’s Circle but can still watch up close from behind the barriers.
You’ll be served a delectable 3-course dinner with the option to make it a 4-course for an extra fee by adding a cheese board. This option is perfect for those who want the true VIP experience at the Dubai Racing Carnival.
The attentive staff will show you to the table and bring everything you need to your table. You can choose from a soft drink or bubbly package.
You can even ask the manager of the restaurant to show you around, which if they’re available, they’ll give you a tour of some of the other areas of the race track. The perks of being a VIP!
This ticket is the most expensive option and also includes entry to all the lucky draws plus the ‘Pick 7’ competition. Children over 2 need to buy a soft beverage package ticket. Under 2 are free.
Tips for attending the Dubai Racing Carnival
Based on my experience attending the Dubai Racing Carnival, these are my tips to make your experience as smooth as possible!
- Arrive early, parking opens at 3:30 pm and the gates open at 4pm, even the VIP parking close to the gate fills up quickly so I recommend getting there when the gate opens.
- Submit your Pick 7 forms early, the cut-off is 6 pm to submit these for a chance to win cash prizes but you’ll need to sit, look through the racing guide book and the horses which can take a bit of time.
- Don’t just stay in the hospitality area! Finish your meal and head down to the Parade ring or Winner’s Circle for the last few races. You’ll be close to the action, and it’s a great experience seeing the horses up close.
- Dress up. You’ll see many women wearing cocktail dresses with formal occasion hats in the hospitality area. Unlike other horse racing events worldwide, Dubai loves to get dressed up every weekend for the races rather than select occasions.
- Children over 2 for most of the hospitality packages have to buy a soft beverage package except the Paddock View lounge, which has specific discounted kids tickets.
- For those with children, I’d recommend either the Trackside by McGettigans, Parade Ring Lounge or Paddock view as they offer buffet options, the Winner’s Circle is a longer and more formal 3-course meal.
If you’re curious about, what’s appropriate to wear in Dubai, my previous full guide will give you the truth and how to fit in with the locals when it comes to style!
Dubai World Cup
The next date for the Dubai World Cup is Saturday, 5th April 2025.
The Dubai World Cup is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the world and held every year in March or April.
Launched in 1996, it is one of the richest horse races globally, attracting elite horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world to compete for multi-million-dollar prizes.
The event is not just about racing; it’s a glamorous social occasion featuring world-class entertainment, extravagant fashion, and many hospitality options. It’s one of the highlights of Dubai’s sporting calendar and a bucket list experience for many.
If you want more information about Dubai Racing, make sure to check out the Dubai Racing website or email questions to [email protected]
Jebel Ali Racecourse
The Jebel Ali Racecourse is located approximately 35 kilometers southwest from central Dubai and offers a unique racing experience. It was established in 1990 and is a right-handed, horseshoe-shaped dirt track spanning 2,200 meters with a distinctive uphill finish.
The venue is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, providing a charming contrast to the grandeur of Meydan.
Jebal Ali Racecourse Tickets available
- Grandstand
- Horsemen Garden
- Corporate
There are considerably less tickets available compared to Meydan, which is to be expected considering it’s size.
Looking for other experiences in Dubai?
- Try to an alternative to horse racing with Dubai’s camel racing track
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