Saudi Trainer Al Monif Out to Impress in Dubai
Saudi Arabia’s rising horse racing trainer Abdullah Al Monif is preparing to make his mark on the international stage as he joins the 2026–27 Dubai Racing Carnival at Meydan Racecourse.
At just 34 years old, Al Monif represents a new generation of Saudi racing professionals seeking opportunities beyond their home country. His arrival in Dubai highlights the growing connections between Saudi Arabian racing and the United Arab Emirates.
According to Dubai Racing Club, Al Monif has brought two horses from his Saudi Arabian training base, hoping to gain valuable international experience while competing against established racing operations.
A New Challenge at Meydan
The prestigious Dubai Racing Carnival opens on 6 November 2026, bringing together international trainers, jockeys and racehorses for another exciting season.
Al Monif’s participation represents an important milestone in his developing career. Racing at Meydan offers an opportunity to evaluate his horses against international competition while gaining experience in a world-class racing environment.
His arrival also reflects Dubai’s increasing appeal to emerging trainers, a trend previously explored by Al Badia Magazine in its coverage of international racing operations establishing a presence in Dubai.
Two Promising Horses Lead the Campaign
Al Monif will introduce Allajayn and Brave Vekoma during the Carnival’s opening meeting.
Allajayn, a promising filly, enters the 1,400-metre three-year-old Conditions race after producing encouraging performances in Saudi Arabia.
She has competed three times since August and finished second in her two most recent appearances at Taif Racecourse.
These performances could provide a useful fitness advantage as she prepares to face new rivals at Meydan.
Al Monif believes the race will help him understand her suitability for the Dubai track and determine appropriate targets for the remainder of her campaign.
Meanwhile, Brave Vekoma will contest the 1,200-metre Emirates Courier Express Maiden.
The young horse has already made five appearances at Taif, gaining racing experience before travelling to Dubai.
His trainer has expressed satisfaction with the horse’s progress since arriving in the UAE, emphasizing development and experience rather than immediate results.
Strengthening Saudi-UAE Racing Connections
Al Monif’s participation illustrates the growing importance of international competition in the Gulf’s thoroughbred racing industry.
Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have continued attracting global attention through prestigious racing events, improved facilities and competitive programmes.
For emerging trainers, international participation provides opportunities to develop horses, establish professional relationships and gain valuable exposure.
The wider regional racing landscape has also been highlighted in Al Badia Magazine’s coverage of the UAE’s ambitious new racing season.
Looking Ahead to an Exciting Season
The 2026–27 Dubai Racing Carnival features 16 meetings through 12 March 2027, building towards the prestigious Dubai World Cup on 27 March.
For Al Monif, the immediate priority is understanding how his horses perform in unfamiliar conditions and identifying suitable future opportunities.
As the Carnival welcomes leading competitors from around the world, the young Saudi trainer’s ambitions add another compelling story to Dubai’s international racing season.
Whether Allajayn and Brave Vekoma achieve immediate success or gain valuable experience, their participation marks an encouraging step in Al Monif’s career.
For race schedules, official announcements and Carnival information, visit Dubai Racing Club.
