The 2026-27 UAE racing season kicks off this Thursday, launching a landmark campaign that commemorates 50 years of Abu Dhabi’s rich equestrian heritage and sporting accomplishments. This season spans a total of 64 race meetings distributed across the nation’s premier racecourses, showcasing both Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred racing. Heralding a landmark year that celebrates five decades of Abu Dhabi’s rich equestrian heritage and sporting achievement, the 2026-27 UAE racing season gallops into life on Thursday. A new chapter in the nation’s rich equestrian story is set to unfold, as the sound of hooves returns to the racecourses. Featuring a distinguished programme of races for both Purebred Arabian and Thoroughbred horses, the new season underscores UAE’s continued commitment to elevating the stature. We look forward to a memorable season that celebrates both our heritage and our ambitions for the future,” he added.
Abu Dhabi Turf Club will host 16 of these meetings, highlighted by two major events. The UAE President Cup, which carries a prize purse of Dhs8 million, is scheduled for December 12. Following this, the venue will host the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup on February 7, 2027, offering a $1 million prize. A seasoned journalist covering major sports events around the world. Amir is Sports Editor with.
The season-opening meeting features a seven-race card starting at 5pm with the Fursan Al Watan Sprint, a 1,200-metre maiden for UAE-bred Purebred Arabians aged four and above.
This is followed by the 1,400-metre Al Izz Elite Cup at 5.30pm. Additional Arabian racing includes the Arabian Stride Mile at 6pm, the Wathba Stallions Cup for private owners over 2,200 metres at 6.30pm, and the Qasr Al Watan Challenge at 7pm. A 1,600-metre handicap at 6pm, followed by the Wathba Stallions Cup for Private Owners over 2,200 metres at 6.30pm, purebred Arabian racing continues with the Arabian Stride Mile.
The evening concludes with Thoroughbred competition: the Desert Jewel Handicap at 7.30pm and the 1,200-metre Capital Speed Sprint at 8pm. Rounding out a compelling programme of endurance, pace and fierce competition, the Al Ain Mile will add a burst of speed and excitement.
Ali Al Shaiba, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club and Abu Dhabi Turf Club and CEO of Al Khail Square, noted that the season is a significant milestone coinciding with the local equestrian Golden Jubilee. He emphasized that the focus is on both honoring the past and enhancing the sport for future generations through elite competition and improved visitor experiences.
Meydan Racecourse will host 17 meetings, serving as the season’s centerpiece. The campaign concludes there with the 31st edition of the $12 million Dubai World Cup on March 27, 2027. Leading up to this, the Dubai Racing Carnival runs from November 6, 2026, to March 12, 2027. The flagship event is expected to command international attention once again, reinforcing the UAE’s standing as a leading destination on the world racing stage, a magnet for elite equine talent from around the globe.
Other regional tracks are also preparing for a full schedule. Al Ain Racecourse is set to stage 14 meetings, with its marquee attraction being the three-leg Marathon Series alongside the Al Ain Mile. Meanwhile, Jebel Ali Racecourse will feature 11 meetings, continuing its tradition of competitive Thoroughbred racing in a lively atmosphere. Bringing its distinctive blend of competitive Thoroughbred racing and vibrant race-day atmosphere to another exciting campaign, jebel Ali Racecourse will host 11 meetings during their upcoming season.
Sharjah Longines Racecourse rounds out the calendar with six meetings. Its program includes signature events such as the HH The Ruler of Sharjah Cup, the GCC Cup, and the HH Sharjah Crown Prince Cup, reflecting the emirate’s deep-rooted passion for the equestrian arts.
