More international racehorse owners are selecting Dubai as the top training destination for their horses during the winter season. According to a leading official, applications for training in Dubai as part of the Dubai Racing Carnival have jumped by over 60% compared to last year.
Ali Al Ali, CEO and board member of Dubai Racing Club, shared, “Last year, we received 190 nominations for international horses. This year, the number has increased to 310. It’s not just about the quantity but also the quality of horses. About 40% of these horses are rated 110 and above. For context, last year’s winning horse, Laurel River, had a rating of 128. This reflects the high standard of competition.”
The Dubai Racing Carnival, which started on November 8, will run until March, ending right before the Dubai World Cup on April 5. The event combines local and international races into one grand season, offering a more cohesive racing experience.
Exciting New Features for 2024
Ali highlighted some key additions to this year’s carnival:
- Two New Race Nights:
- Festival Friday (Sponsored by Emaar)
- Fashion Friday (Sponsored by Longines)
The first major event, Festive Friday, is set for December 20, featuring eight races, including the G2 Makoum Mile with a prize pool of Dh1 million. In total, Dh5 million in prize money will be awarded on the night.
This revamped format has already been well-received, with British trainer Jamie Osborne’s horse, Heart of Honor, securing a win earlier this season. Other trainers, such as Lucie Botti and Norwegian champion Niels Petersen, have also committed to basing their horses in Dubai for the winter.
Why Dubai Attracts Top Trainers
Ali explained why Dubai has become a preferred choice for top horse trainers. “In many parts of the world, including the UK, Europe, and Asia, November to April is a quiet season for racing. Here in Dubai, we take advantage of that window. We offer global exposure, big prize money, world-class facilities, and a reputation for excellence in horse racing.”
This reputation has even attracted Hong Kong superstar Romantic Warrior, a three-time winner of the Hong Kong Cup. The horse will arrive in Dubai next week to prepare for the Fashion Friday race on January 24.
The growth in participation and the addition of new events firmly establish Dubai as a premier international hub for horse racing.
