ABU DHABI (WAM)
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA), has approved the official fixture list of the UAE racing season 2024-2025.
His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed said, “Today, we are launching an exceptional racing programme for the 2024-2025 season, marking a significant advancement in the world of horse racing and solidifying the UAE’s position as a premier global destination for this historic sport."
“We have made every effort to ensure this season is filled with major events and competitions, attracting the most prominent horses, trainers, and riders from around the globe. This will provide a unique and thrilling experience for horse racing fans and enthusiasts,” His Highness added.
His Highness noted that this season will witness new initiatives and events from the clubs, aiming to enhance the status of horse racing in the country, expand the base of participation in it, and attract more global partnerships.
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Zayed commended the spirited efforts of Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Racing Authority, Board Members, racing clubs and racecourses in the UAE as well as the teams of the ERA for their wholehearted support and contribution to the betterment of the sport.
The new programme includes many prestigious races, which witness wide participation of local and international horses, both crossbred and purebred, and are held on the most modern international tracks in the country, amid a highly competitive atmosphere.
Abu Dhabi Racecourse will host the opening fixture of the UAE season on Saturday, 26th October, followed by Sharjah Longines Racecours on Sunday, October 27.
Al Ain Racecourse will open its doors for the first time on Friday, November 1, and Jebel Ali Racecourse action will start on Saturday, November 2.
The opening night of the Meydan Racecourse will be on Friday, November 8.
The UAE 2024-2025 racing campaign includes a total of 64 meetings, an increase of 3 races over the previous season, comprising 16 at Abu Dhabi Racecourse, 14 at Al Ain Racecourse, 11 at Jebel Ali Racecourse, 6 at Sharjah Racecourse, and 17 at Meydan Racecourse.
Racing in Abu Dhabi features the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Jewel Crown for Purebred Arabians, and the UAE President's Cup.
The Dubai Racing Club will witness the 29th start of the Dubai World Cup at the Meydan Racecourse, which will be held for the first time in April, with the continuation of the second extended edition, adding two evenings to the Dubai Racing Carnival.
Al Ain Racecourse will host Al Ain Mile race day as well as the Marathon Series, while racing in Jebel Ali features Jebel Ali Mile, Jebel Ali Sprint and Jebel Ali Stakes.
Fixtures at Sharjah Racecourse are highlighted by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah Cup at the concluding meeting, the GCC Cup, Crown Prince of Sharjah Cup, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Cup (1st leg of the Emirates Sprint Series).