Hike in prize money, Daaeemm initiative herald new chapter for Jebel Ali Racecourse

Jebel Ali Racecourse is set to ignite the imagination of the racing world with a spectacular 20 per cent surge in total prize money for the season, promising thrills, glory, and unforgettable moments on the track.

But the excitement does not end there. In a bold leap of innovation, the racecourse has unveiled the ‘Daaeemm’ scheme — the world’s first incentive programme dedicated entirely to support horse owners.

In the spirit of innovation, Jebel Ali Racecourse gallops ahead, weaving legacy with progress in every hoofbeat.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the upcoming season will kick off on November 1 and end on March 8, 2026, featuring 11 racing meetings.

The season’s marquee events include the Jebel Ali Mile, the Jebel Ali Sprint — a distinguished leg of the Emirates Sprint Series — and the Jebel Ali Stakes.

The announcement was made during a press conference held on Tuesday at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, attended by Engineer Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Board Member and General Manager of the Emirates Racing Authority (ERA); Mohamed Al Ahmed, Director General of Jebel Ali Racecourse; as well as a number of ERA officials and trainers.

Daaeemm, a visionary racing incentive scheme, ushers in a bold new era for equestrian sport with its ingeniously designed reward system.

Meticulously crafted to inspire robust participation across a diverse array of races, the programme enhances select events with generous bonuses that complement the official prize money, amplifying both excitement and opportunity.

Spanning multiple categories — from promising two- and three-year-old contenders to those still chasing their first triumph — Daaeemm cultivates spirited competition while raising the bar for racing excellence.

By seamlessly blending innovation with tradition, this pioneering initiative reaffirms Jebel Ali Racecourse’s unwavering dedication to fostering passion, ambition, and world-class performance in the heart of the UAE’s racing landscape.

Mohamed emphasised that the new racing will further Jebel Ali Racecourse’s mission to elevate horse racing in accordance with the highest international standards.

He highlighted that the 2025–2026 season with enhanced prize purses designed to encourage broader participation and greater engagement from horse owners, ultimately strengthening the sport’s competitive spirit.

Mohamed expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Ahmed for his patronage and continued support for the event and all initiatives aimed at preserving the UAE’s rich horse racing heritage that represents a vital part of the nation’s identity.

He also commended the vital role that the sponsors and strategic partners play in ensuring the success of the event and presenting it in the best way possible to reflect its distinguished status among the nation’s premier racecourses.

Mohamed reaffirmed Jebel Ali Racecourse’s pursuit of cultivating a professional and sustainable racing ecosystem — one that opens its gates to all participants, elevates performance standards, and ignites the spirit of competition.

“This vision finds vibrant expression in the launch of the Daaeemm scheme, a trailblazing initiative first of its kind in the global racing arena designed to champion horse owners and invigorate participation.

“Daaeemm is a promise — to nurture talent, sharpen competitive edge, and offer unwavering support across all categories. Its ripple effect is poised to leave a lasting imprint on the sport, fortifying the UAE’s stature as a premier destination for horse racing on both regional and international arenas,” he added.

Adding a rich cultural tapestry to the racing calendar, each meeting is adorned with community-driven celebrations that honour heritage and inspire unity. From the poignant Zayed and Rashid Campaign on November 29, to the spirited Students and Universities Day on December 13, and the jubilant New Year Celebration on December 27 — the season unfolds like a festival of tradition and joy.

Artistic flair takes center stage on Art Day (January 17th), while elegance and excitement gallop hand-in-hand during Gallop and Glam Fashion Day on February 15. The season culminates in heartfelt Ramadan Celebrations on March 1 and 8, 2026 — a graceful finale to a season.