DUBAI: The Dubai World Cup recently took place during a time of uncertainty in the region. Ali Al-Ali, CEO and board member of the Dubai Racing Club (DRC), spoke to Arab News about the challenges faced ahead of the event and the success of the latest racing season.
The Dubai World Cup took place during a difficult time for the region. What does its success say about Dubai and Dubai Racing Club?
The success of the Dubai World Cup, particularly in a challenging regional context, reflects Dubai’s resilience, stability, and ability to bring people together through world-class events. It underscores the strength of Dubai Racing Club’s planning, partnerships, and commitment to delivering at the highest international standards, while remaining mindful of the wider environment. Above all, it highlights Dubai’s position as a global hub where sport continues to unite cultures and audiences from around the world.
How were the trainers and jockeys affected in terms of organization and security?
The feedback from trainers, jockeys, and international connections was overwhelmingly positive. They consistently highlighted the professionalism of the organization, the quality of the facilities at Meydan Racecourse, and the seamless coordination across all touchpoints. Security and safety are always a top priority, and we worked closely with our partners to ensure a secure environment without compromising the overall experience. This level of trust is essential in maintaining Dubai’s reputation on the global racing stage.
And was there still a large number of visitors from abroad?
Yes, we were very encouraged by the strong international turnout. Owners, trainers, jockeys, and fans travelled from across key racing markets — Europe, the US, Japan, and beyond. This continued global participation is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Dubai World Cup and reinforces its standing as one of the most international events in the sport.
How would you sum up the Dubai racing season as a whole?
It has been an exceptionally strong season, defined by both sporting excellence and continued audience growth. The Dubai Racing Carnival saw a 37-percent increase in attendance year-on-year, marking impressive growth of 73 percent over the past two years, which reflects the growing appeal of horseracing in Dubai and the strength of our overall proposition.
On the track, we welcomed a truly international field, with horses, owners, and trainers travelling from across the globe to compete at the highest level. From the opening fixtures through to the Dubai World Cup, the season has demonstrated both the depth of competition and Dubai’s increasing relevance on the global racing calendar.
What were the highlights of the season for you?
There were many standout moments, but seeing the caliber of international horses competing at Meydan is always particularly special. The Dubai World Cup remains a defining highlight, both in terms of sporting excellence and the atmosphere on the night. Beyond the headline races, the energy throughout the carnival, the strength of international participation, and the continued emergence of new talent has all been incredibly rewarding to witness.
What can racing fans expect from Dubai Racing Club in the coming months and years?
Our focus remains on building on this momentum and continuing to innovate while preserving the heritage of the sport. This includes further enhancing the international appeal of our racing program, investing in digital and fan-engagement initiatives, and creating new opportunities for participation and ownership. We are committed to ensuring that Dubai remains at the forefront of global horseracing, both on and off the track.
