Nadd Al Shiba World Cup, Dubai, 2018 – Photo by Imadkayyali
The United Arab Emirates has a rich history of horse racing that dates back centuries. The early forms of horse racing in the region were endurance races that were used to test the strength and resistance of Arabian horses, which were highly valued by Bedouin tribes for their ability to survive in harsh desert environments. In the modern era, flat racing was introduced to the UAE in the 20th century. Today, horse racing has become a major industry in the UAE, with state-of-the-art racing facilities and a calendar of high-profile racing events that attract top jockeys, trainers, and racehorses from around the world. The UAE has become known as a hub for horse racing and equestrianism, with a deep respect for the traditions and heritage of the sport.
If you’re interested in learning more about different types of horse racing competitions, including endurance races and flat races, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide about horse racing.
A thrilling blend of endurance and speed
The UAE’s rich equestrian culture revolves around two main activities: endurance racing and flat racing. Together, these two disciplines have helped establish the UAE as a global hub for horse racing. These events not only showcase the best horses and riders from around the world, but also serve as cultural and social gatherings that celebrate the country’s passion for the sport.
Endurance racing:
Photo by Land Rover MENA
Endurance racing has been a part of Emirati culture for centuries, and the UAE is known for its long-distance endurance races that can cover up to 160 kilometers in a single day. These races typically take place in the cooler months of the year (from October until March) and test the endurance & speed of both horse and rider. Endurance racing has helped to preserve the legacy of the Arabian horse in the UAE, with many breeders and trainers specializing in these types of races.
Flat racing:
Flat racing, which takes place on a track with no obstacles, has become increasingly popular in the UAE in recent years. The first official flat race in the UAE took place in Abu Dhabi in 1992, and since then, the sport has grown significantly in the 7 Emirates.
Major horse racing events in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE hosts several major horse racing events throughout the year, which have helped to establish the country as a global hub for the sport. One of the most famous events is the Dubai World Cup, which is the richest horse race in the world with a purse of $12 million. The Abu Dhabi International Racing Festival is another major event, featuring a series of high-profile races over two days. The Dubai Racing Carnival is another highlight of the UAE’s horse racing calendar, featuring a series of races that take place over several weeks in the lead up to the Dubai World Cup.
If you want to learn more about the main equestrian events in the UAE, I wrote an article on this topic. You will find a comprehensive overview of the major equestrian events in the UAE, as well as information on the history, culture, and traditions of horse racing and equestrianism in the region.
Staying up-to-date with the Latest Racing Events in the UAE
If you’re interested in keeping up-to-date with the latest horse racing events in the UAE, there are several websites that offer calendars, racing cards, and results for both flat racing and endurance racing.
One of the most comprehensive sites is the Emirates Racing Authority, which features a detailed calendar of events, along with information on each race, including the horses, trainers, and jockeys involved. The Emirates Racing Authority website provides updates and information on all the major horse racing tracks in the UAE, including Meydan, Abu Dhabi, Jebel Ali, Sharjah, and Al Ain. These tracks host a variety of flat races throughout the year, and the website provides detailed information on the schedules and results of each race.
The Dubai Racing Club website is another valuable resource for anyone interested in horse racing in the UAE. Their website provides updates on various horse racing events that take place at the Meydan racing course, including the Dubai World Cup and the Dubai Racing Carnival. Visitors to the website can access information on the latest news, race schedules, results, ticket sales and season passes.
For a more in-depth coverage, you can also check out Racingpost.com, which covers horse racing from around the world and offers expert analysis of each race.
If you are particularly interested in endurance competitions, the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation website offers a comprehensive list of all upcoming endurance races, including important details such as the location and date of each event. Additionally, you can find more information about each race, including rules, horse welfare information, and much more.
You can also download the UAEERF app on Google Play or the Apple Store.
Betting on horse races in the UAE
Gambling on horse racing in Dubai, as well as in the rest of the UAE, is strictly regulated and heavily restricted. While horse racing is legal in the UAE, betting on it is only allowed through government-controlled channels, such as the on-site betting outlets at racecourses in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Engaging in illegal gambling activities in the UAE, including betting on horse racing through unauthorized channels, can result in severe penalties, including 2 years imprisonment and fines up to 20.000 Dh. The UAE has strict laws against illegal gambling, and anyone caught breaking these laws can face legal consequences.
Life after racing
The UAE has a strong horse racing culture, with many prestigious races and events held throughout the year. However, once a racehorse’s career comes to an end (and that happens pretty soon in a horse’s life), there is often uncertainty about what will happen to the animal. In recognition of this issue, the UAE’s horse racing industry has established programs to facilitate the adoption of retired racehorses.
The “Life After Racing” initiative was launched on February 15, 2021. The program aims to find new homes for retired racehorses and to raise awareness about their potential as riding horses, companion animals, and even therapy animals. The Life After Racing initiative works in collaboration with equine welfare organizations, horse owners, and trainers to identify suitable homes for retired racehorses. Prospective adopters undergo a thorough screening process to ensure that they can provide a safe and appropriate environment for the horse.
Once a suitable adopter is found, the horse goes through a rehabilitation and retraining program to prepare it for its new role. The program provides support to adopters and ongoing monitoring of the horse’s welfare to ensure a successful transition to its new home.
The initiative has been successful in rehoming retired racehorses and raising awareness about their potential for life after racing. The Life After Racing initiative is a commendable effort by the UAE’s horse racing industry to promote responsible equine welfare and to ensure that retired racehorses are given a second chance in life.
If you are interested in learning more about the Life After Racing initiative or if you are considering adopting a retired racehorse, you can visit their website and inquire about the horses that are available for rehoming.
