The Dubai World Cup: the world's richest horse race

At first Dubai may seem like an unlikely place for horse racing but, as the city that built a snow dome in the desert, perhaps it should come as no great surprise that this Middle Eastern shopping paradise also hosts the world's richest horse race. T

   At first Dubai may seem like an unlikely place for horse racing but, as the city that built a snow dome in the desert, perhaps it should come as no great surprise that this Middle Eastern shopping paradise also hosts the world's richest horse race.

The race was founded in 1996 by the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also the owner of Darley Stud and Godolphin Racing, one of the world's leading thoroughbred breeding and racing operations.

Held annually at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, the 2000m track is a left handed dirt course. The race is most notable for being the world's richest race, with some US$6 million at stake, and the race is recognised as the centrepiece of international racing and hailed as the thoroughbred "World Championship".

The fact that the race takes place in the Middle East is especially significant, as every thoroughbred horse in the world is descended from three Arabian stallions which were originally exported from the Middle East: the Darley Arabian, the Byerley Turk and the Godolphin Arabian. These stallions were bred with English mares and all modern thoroughbreds carry the genetics of these Arabian horses.

The image of Arabian horsemen charging across the desert is still a strong part of Arab mythology, and there has long been a strong association between the Middle East and horses that has been recognised worldwide for many centuries.

Historically, horses were used as a symbol of power, wealth and status within Middle Eastern society, and horses where selectively bred generation upon generation to increase speed and stamina, which is now seen in many thoroughbred horses across the world.

The race draws horses, riders and racing fans from all over the world and offers a number of upmarket hospitality events for punters. The 'Breakfast with the Stars' event features live commentary, celebrity interviews with top guests and live entertainment, with a lavish breakfast buffet that is served on the lawns next to the paddock.

International Village is the heart of the Dubai World Cup social scene and is a great spot to soak up the exhilarating atmosphere of the races. A ticket-only event, the International Village incorporates a multitude of food and beverage outlets and also features the bubble lounge, exhibition stands, live entertainment and giant digital screens to view the live action racing.

Those wishing to visit the world's richest horse race and looking for accommodation can take their pick from Dubai's beach hotels, downtown hotels, or Marina hotels, which together offer a selection of upmarket, luxury places in which to base yourself during the Dubai World Cup.

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Adam Singleton is an online, freelance journalist and keen amateur photographer. His portfolio, called Capquest Photography is available to view online.