Dubai World Cup turns 30 in 2026 and tickets start from just Dh40

Dubai: The Dubai World Cup is hitting a major milestone next year and it is a celebration of the tournament 3 decades of racing. On March 28 2026, Meydan Racecourse will host the 30th running of what's become one of the most glamorous events on the sporting calendar.

It's not just about the horses (though with $30.5 million in prize money across nine races, they're rather important). The Dubai World Cup has evolved into this massive spectacle that combines world-class racing with serious entertainment, fashion competitions, and enough food and drink options to keep you going all day.

Last year's event broke attendance records and was broadcast to 170 countries. The closing ceremony even snagged multiple Guinness World Records. But what really sets it apart is that it manages to be both a proper sporting event and an absolutely brilliant day out, whether you're into horses or not.

Tickets went on sale this week, and if you book before December 31, you'll save a fair bit. General admission starts from just Dh40 online, which gets you into the public areas with live entertainment. But the real action is in the various hospitality packages.

The Apron Views area is where the party's at with trackside views, buzzing atmosphere, and loads of food and drink options. Early bird tickets are Dh280, which jumps to Dh450 after New Year's. If you fancy something more elevated (literally), the Grand Gallop Mega Brunch offers a five-hour brunch inside the SkyBubble with panoramic views. That's Dh699 if you book early, or Dh849 later.

The Gallery is back with a fresh look, serving afternoon tea followed by a lavish buffet. Early bird tickets are Dh1,120 for adults (Dh1,400 full price) and Dh360 for kids.

New for 2026 is the Far Turn Terrace on the third floor, offering outdoor seating and international cuisine from Dh2,080 early bird (Dh2,600 full price), with children's tickets at Dh360.

The Terrace, one of Meydan's prime spots, comes in two sections. The free-flow seating area costs Dh2,400 early bird (Dh3,000 full price), whilst the corporate section takes tables of 10 at Dh2,880 per person (Dh3,600 full price). Both include afternoon tea, gourmet sandwiches, and an impressive spread of international dishes.

For those wanting the full fine dining experience, there's quite the lineup. The Winner's Circle on Level 2 overlooks the parade ring and offers a four-course menu, afternoon tea, and free-flow drink from Dh4,000. Mosimann's, the renowned British culinary institution, is making its Dubai debut at the Paddock View Restaurant with packages DhAED 5,000.

Silks Restaurant by The MAINE returns with its retro-vintage American vibe, signature dishes, and premium beverages from Dh6,500. The Parade Ring Restaurant by Madinat Jumeirah is the place to be if you're after oysters, caviar, and a raw bar, starting from Dh8,000.

And if you're thinking corporate entertainment or a proper celebration with mates, private hospitality suites accommodate groups of 10 to 100, complete with fantastic track views, dedicated staff, and premium beverages. Regular suites start at Dh5,750, whilst central suites are Dh6,750, but availability's limited so you'll want to move fast.

What's interesting about the Dubai World Cup is how it's become this cultural moment that goes beyond racing. The Emaar-sponsored Style Stakes fashion competition draws crowds on its own, and the whole event has this energy that's distinctly Dubai, a bit over-the-top in the best possible way, but never losing sight of the actual sport.

The organisers are promising that the 30th edition will blend "heritage and innovation in equal measure," which probably means expect something spectacular. Given that previous years have featured everything from world-famous performers to jaw-dropping fireworks, they've set the bar pretty high for themselves.