Dubai World Cup: Splendour, stakes, speed

Are you new in town? Or perhaps you've just been off the social scene for a while? Either way, if you're ready for a relaunch, the Dubai World Cup is the place to do it. Just make sure you're prepared. We're not talking about just finding the most fabulous frock or the hottest hat. The tips and tricks needed to negotiate a day at the Dubai World Cup, faux pas-free, are endless. So slap on your sunblock, dust the feathers on your hat, buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Nailing the outfit

These tips from Dubai's top fashionistas will have you looking your best on the big day.

"If you bought your dress from the high street, especially the current season, chances are someone else will be in the same outfit, which spells disaster," says award-winning personal stylist, races regular, and founder of Divine, Kelly Lundberg. She adds: "The trick is to make your outfit your own. Also, make sure that your shoes are comfortable. You are in them all day and hobbling is not a good look.There is nothing worse than a girl struggling in a pair of painful heels, especially on grass."

Founder and Editor of superfabme.com, Natascha Hawke, agrees that comfort is key when getting dressed on the big day: "We all know Dubaican be scorching so go for dresses in light fabrics such as organza, silk and cotton to keep you cool." She adds: "Also, don't go overboard. Race day is an excuse to work some serious headgear but be aware that less is most definitely more."

If you're feeling pleased with your outfit, why not see what the judges think? The Jaguar Style Stakes is back, but this fiercely contested competition is not for the faint-hearted. You can enter ‘Best Dressed Lady', ‘Best Dressed Man', ‘Best Dressed Couple' or even ‘Best Hat'. Registration forms are available on the day from all Jaguar Style Stakes registration desks. Judges are looking for style, originality, and attention to detail. Short skirts and too much cleavage will not go down well.

You can also try your luck at the Pick 7 and Tricast competitions to win great cash prizes. If you're feeling really lucky, enter the Skywards ‘Thanks A Million' draw — with a million Skywards Miles on offer for the winner. Feeling luckier? Enter the Dubai Duty Free Finest Surprise Draw and ride home in a Bentley.

Getting around

Avoid spending your whole day at the races getting lost — here are the key places you need to know.

Apron Views: This is where most of the action happens. Apron Viewsplays host to the now famous, or infamous, Irish Village area as well as the ubiquitous Bubble Lounge. They have cash bars, so don't worry about tokens, and there are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.

There's also an air-conditioned concourse if you're finding themidday heat a bit too much, and a DJ to get the party started once you've had your fill of the fillies.

Ticket sales office: If you're grabbing your tickets on the day or looking for a handy spot to meet friends, this is a good place to start. The ticket sales office is locatednear the entrances in between Gates B and C. Call them on 04-327-2110 for more information.

Jaguar Style Stakes Arena: If you want your outfit to be publicly judged, the Jaguar Style Stakes Arena is located just behind Apron Views. Head along early to avoid disappointment. This is Dubai, after all. We don't do wall flowers.

Suites: You can find the banqueting suites within the grandstands —and if you've been lucky enough to grab a spot here, we're very jealous.

The hospitality suites are also located within the main grandstands, although you can grab a wristband and pop out to mingle with the common folks, if you wish.