Dubai Racing Carnival 2025/26 Season Dates Unveiled
30th Dubai World Cup Set for 28 March 2026
The stage is set for another thrilling season of world-class racing at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, as Dubai Racing Club announces the dates for the 2025/26 Dubai Racing Carnival. Spanning 17 spectacular race meetings, the season kicks off on Friday, 7 November 2025, and reaches its dramatic conclusion on Saturday, 28 March 2026 with the 30th running of the Dubai World Cup.
The Dubai World Cup meeting—renowned as one of global horseracing’s most prestigious sporting and social occasions—will mark a historic milestone in 2026, celebrating three decades since its inaugural race in 1996. Fans and racing enthusiasts from across the globe can expect an unforgettable night of celebration under the lights of Meydan.
Four major feature days anchor the season, each blending top-tier racing with signature Dubai hospitality and entertainment:
- ‘Festive Friday’ – 19 December 2025: The holiday spirit kicks off with the AED 1 million G2 Maktoum Mile, headlining a high-quality card.
- ‘Fashion Friday’ – 23 January 2026: Elegance meets excitement in a full Pattern-race line-up, led by the AED 3.68 million G1 Al Maktoum Challenge, offering a coveted Bonus Scheme berth into the Dubai World Cup.
- Emirates Super Saturday – 28 February 2026: A cornerstone of the Carnival, this key prep day features the G2 Al Maktoum Classic, a ‘win and you’re in’ race with direct implications for the Dubai World Cup.
- Dubai World Cup – 28 March 2026: The world’s most spectacular race day – the grand finale, where champions are crowned and racing history is made.
Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, commented: “The Dubai World Cup is firmly established as one of the world’s great sporting and social spectacles. As we prepare for its 30th edition in 2026, a milestone to be truly celebrated, we look forward to welcoming the finest horses, jockeys, and connections from around the world.
The 16 lead-up meetings of the Dubai Racing Carnival promise exceptional competition and international flair. Thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Carnival continues to elevate Dubai’s position on the global racing stage.”
Ali Al Ali, CEO and Board Member, Dubai Racing Club, added: “we are extremely proud of the growth of both the Dubai World Cup and Dubai Racing Carnival over the past three decades. Under the guidance of our leaders, we are working hard to ensure that we fulfil their visions and make the 30th Dubai World Cup a truly unforgettable experience for both horse racing professionals and race fans.”
