Dubai: The Equine Training Capital
Why Dubai is the International Horses' Training Hotspot?
Dubai has become increasingly popular among international horse racing teams and their owners as the perfect site for winter training and competitions. Interest in the opportunities offered by the city, as part of the Dubai Racing Carnival, has risen by more than 60% compared to 2023, highlighting the growing importance of the emirate in the global horse racing industry.
The Story Behind the Numbers
Ali Al Ali, CEO and board member of the Dubai Racing Club, highlighted that 310 entries were received from abroad in 2024, compared to 190 the previous year. This not only signifies quantitative growth, but the quality of the horses entered has also improved significantly. "Approximately 40% of the applications received a rating of 110 or higher, which is exceptional. To put it in perspective, last year's winning horse, Laurel River, received a rating of 128. So we are indeed talking about an outstanding level of quality," said Al Ali.
Why Choose Dubai?
Dubai's unique appeal to international horse racers stems from several factors:
1. World-Class Facilities: The Meydan Racecourse, one of the most modern racetracks in the world, provides an ideal environment for not only races but also training. The facility's excellent infrastructure and innovative technologies ensure that horses are in peak condition.
2. Favorable Winter Climate: While much of Europe and North America are less suitable for training due to cold weather, Dubai's mild climate offers ideal conditions for winter preparation.
3. Global Competitions and Prestige: The Dubai Racing Carnival and the world-famous Dubai World Cup not only offer high prize money but also immense prestige for racers and their owners. This combination makes the city attractive to some of the world's best horses.
4. Excellent Logistical Support: Dubai's location and developed infrastructure make the transport, accommodation, and care of horses straightforward. The services provided by the Dubai Racing Club offer additional assurances for owners.
The Significance of Quality Leap
The quality growth of entries not only highlights Dubai on the horse racing map but also signifies that the city is becoming an increasingly competitive alternative to traditional horse racing locations such as the United Kingdom or the United States. The presence of horses with higher ratings further enhances the level of competition and generates global interest in Dubai's events.
Future Perspective
Dubai continues to actively develop industries related to horse racing, making the city even more attractive for international owners. As a meeting point of sports and tourism, Dubai offers exceptional experiences not only for the racers but also for spectators. Given the growing interest, it is expected that the Dubai Racing Carnival and other events will continue to play vital roles in the global horse racing community.
This growing popularity not only brings significant benefits to the sport but also to Dubai's economy, strengthening the emirate's position as one of the centers of global horse racing. By achieving a balance between quality and quantity, Dubai is increasingly becoming the winter home of the world's best horses.
