Thirtieth edition of Dubai World Cup to be run on March 28

The 30th running of the Dubai World Cup at Meydan will take place on March 28 next year, it was announced on Monday afternoon. 

It means that, unlike this year, there will be no clash between the Grand National and Dubai World Cup Night.

Two of the biggest meetings of the racing year overlapped in early April of this year, but this time there will be a two-week gap, with the Grand National taking place on April 11.

The 2025/26 Dubai Racing Carnival will span 17 meetings, with the season beginning on Friday November 7, and reaching its conclusion with the 30th running of the Dubai World Cup. Every meeting will be shown by Racing TV.

Emirates Super Saturday, the key prep day for World Cup night, will take place on February 28.

Sheikh Rashed bin Dalmook Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Racing Club, said on Monday: “The Dubai World Cup is firmly established as one of the world’s great sporting and social spectacles. As we prepare for its 30th edition in 2026, a milestone to be truly celebrated, we look forward to welcoming the finest horses, jockeys, and connections from around the world. 

“The 16 lead-up meetings of the Dubai Racing Carnival promise exceptional competition and international flair. Thanks to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Carnival continues to elevate Dubai’s position on the global racing stage.” 

Ali Al Ali, CEO and Board Member, Dubai Racing Club, added: “We are extremely proud of the growth of both the Dubai World Cup and Dubai Racing Carnival over the past three decades. Under the guidance of our leaders, we are working hard to ensure that we fulfil their visions and make the 30th Dubai World Cup a truly unforgettable experience for both horse racing professionals and race fans.”