UAE’s horse racing season to begin in capital today

The curtain will rise on the 2025–2026 UAE horse racing season on Saturday, at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club, where the spirit of the sport will once again gallop into life beneath the capital’s sky.

The season opener promises an enthralling night of seven captivating races — five dedicated to the Purebred Arabians, and two to the Thoroughbreds.

Setting the tone for what is sure to be a spectacular season, the action begins with the Wathba Sprint Prep, a thrilling 1,200-meter dash for Purebred Arabians aged four and above.

In an official statement, the club affirmed that the upcoming season’s events are set to attract a stellar line-up of both local and international runners, competing across the Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred categories.

With a total prize fund of Dhs20 million, the season promises to dazzle spectators and participants alike, offering a stage where tradition, excellence, and sporting glory come together in a grand tribute to the nation’s equestrian legacy.

This new season reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to advancing the sport of horse racing, showcasing an exceptional calendar of events featuring both Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred competitions.

The new season promises to be nothing short of spectacular, featuring a remarkable 64 race meetings staged across five of the nation’s premier racecourses.

The Abu Dhabi Turf Club will host a total of 16 race meetings, showcasing the elegance of turf racing in the capital.

Al Ain Racecourse follows with 14 events, where tradition meets passion under the desert sky. Jebel Ali Racecourse will come alive with 11 action-packed meetings, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds. Meanwhile, Sharjah Racecourse will present six exciting contests, blending community spirit with sporting excellence.

The season’s heartbeat continues at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, home to 16 world-class events, culminating in the crown jewel of global racing — the Dubai World Cup.

Highlights of the tAbu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Turf Club includes prestigious Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Cup (Group 3), held in celebration of Union Day on November 22, with a total prize purse of Dhs500,000.

Adding to the season’s grandeur, December 6 will mark another highlight — the illustrious President of the UAE Cup for Purebred Arabian Horses (Group 1), offering Dhs8 million in prize money.

Engineer Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Racecourse, said: “We are excited to welcome another exceptional racing season at Abu Dhabi Racecourse, which features world-class facilities and a turf track that meets the highest standards of organization and safety for both jockeys and horses.”

He added: “The new season’s programme blends competitive, heritage, and community-focused races, offering a unique experience for everyone — from professionals in the field to families and race enthusiasts.”

Shaiba also emphasized: “The support of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chief of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, has been instrumental in elevating the quality and appeal of racing at Abu Dhabi Racecourse — particularly in showcasing the talents of Purebred Arabian horses on the global stage. His patronage continues to inspire excellence and attract equestrian fans from across the UAE and beyond.”