The stage is set for one of the world’s biggest sporting and social events. World Cup fever is in the air. Top jockeys from across the globe and the world’s best thoroughbreds are getting ready to vie for one of the biggest purses in horse racing history. While the Dubai World Cup Carnival officially kicked off on January 5, 2017, the who’s who of Dubai, seasoned race-goers, equestrian enthusiasts and trackside fashionistas will come together as racing season culminates with the much-anticipated Dubai World Cup on March 25, 2017. Held at the Meydan Racecourse, within the glamorous setting of The Meydan Hotel, the event promises first-class horse racing entertainment coupled with the very best in hospitality.
The Dubai World Cup has held the mantle of the world’s richest horse race since 2010 with a total prize purse of US$30 million. The victor alone walks away with a whopping US$10 million. Now in it’s 22nd year, the event remains a crown jewel not only on the city’s sporting calendar but also on the global stage. The line up for 2017 brings together the best of the best from 22 different countries with the world’s most prominent racing yards, trainers, jockeys and thoroughbreds competing for victory.
The prize money, glitz and glamour, and fierce competitiveness aside, the event celebrates the Arabian love affair with horses and the country’s love for horse racing. It pays tribute to the equestrian sport, an integral aspect of Emirati heritage and culture. And as these fine creatures prepare to battle it out on the track, race-goers can get ready for an incredible hospitality treat at the venue.
Experience First-Class Hospitality
The Meydan Hotel presents a wide range of curated hospitality packages, tailored to suit every budget. From premium lounges with ample culinary offerings to private terraces with uninterrupted views of the track, there’s plenty of options to enjoy the event in five-star comfort. Experiences are designed to offer the ultimate in luxury with the ideal social ambience and views that ensure you don’t miss the action on the track.
Among the hotel’s many offerings is access to the First Class Lounge, priced at AED3,750 per person. Situated on the third level of the Meydan Grandstand, the venue is the perfect choice for a stylish World Cup experience, complete with a well-stocked bar, an exclusive terrace and a trackside balcony offering views all the way to the finish line. Guests can start with a refreshing afternoon tea experience followed by an all-day international buffet paired with soft drinks and house beverages.
For large groups, The Terrace boasts the ideal setting with round tables that can accommodate up to 10 guests and stunning views of the racetrack. Packages start at AED32,000 per table inclusive of all-day food and beverage offerings. The Gallery, situated after the finish line, offers great trackside views in an eclectic atmosphere spread across an indoor and outdoor seating area. Guests can choose from a variety of dining options, including afternoon tea, gourmet snacks, dinner and standard house beverages, as part of the package.
For those looking for a unique private dining experience at The Dubai World Cup with 360-degree views of the racing action, the Sky Bubble presents an impressive offering. Located beneath the crescent roof of the Meydan Grandstand, this enclosed area keeps you up to date with live racing coverage on a television screen. Enjoy world-class comfort at this private lounge while tucking into a fork buffet or fresh bites whipped up by live cooking stations.
Apron Views, the main social hub of the event, is home to the famous Jaguar Style Stakes, where the fashion-conscious crowd put their ensembles on show to compete for the prestigious best-dressed title at the Dubai World Cup. Packages for access to the area start at AED450 per person. Apron Views is also the ideal venue to catch all the post-race excitement with a dazzling display of fireworks and entertaining performances by international singers (previous headliners include Jennifer Lopez, Kylie Minogue and Janet Jackson).
At the private Grandstand Suite, guests will be treated to a fine evening with an array of dishes from an international buffet, select beverages from a built-in bar within the suite and dedicated service staff. Those looking to get up close and personal with the competing heroes of the 2017 Dubai World Cup can join in an exclusive ‘Breakfast with the Stars’ experience, priced at AED175 per adult, on the morning of March 23.
There are also several other budget-friendly packages providing guests entry to the facility on the big day. Food and beverages can be purchased for an additional cost while all the horse racing action is streamed live on television screens at the venue. Packages start from AED50 per person.
Be Part of a Country-Wide Celebration
The Dubai World Cup celebrates every nuance of the emirate as a global destination and brings to the forefront the UAE’s heritage, wealth, prestige and hospitality. The event is a perfect portrayal of Dubai at its best, bringing together 80,000 spectators, world-class jockeys, premium thoroughbreds, five-star luxury, high fashion and US$30 million worth of prizes to be won.