The Dubai World Cup - The World's Richest Horse Race

At first Dubai may seem like an unlikely place forGodolphin Arabian. These stallions were bred with
horse racing but, as the city that built a snow dome inEnglish mares and all modern thoroughbreds carry the
the desert, perhaps it should come as no greatgenetics of these Arabian horses.
surprise that this Middle Eastern shopping paradise alsoThe image of Arabian horsemen charging across the
hosts the world's richest horse race.desert is still a strong part of Arab mythology, and
The race was founded in 1996 by the ruler of Dubai,there has long been a strong association between the
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who isMiddle East and horses that has been recognised
also the owner of Darley Stud and Godolphin Racing,worldwide for many centuries.
one of the world's leading thoroughbred breeding andHistorically, horses were used as a symbol of power,
racing operations.wealth and status within Middle Eastern society, and
Held annually at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, thehorses where selectively bred generation upon
2000m track is a left handed dirt course. The race isgeneration to increase speed and stamina, which is
most notable for being the world's richest race, withnow seen in many thoroughbred horses across the
some US$6 million at stake, and the race is recognisedworld.
as the centrepiece of international racing and hailed asThe race draws horses, riders and racing fans from all
the thoroughbred "World Championship".over the world and offers a number of upmarket
The fact that the race takes place in the Middle Easthospitality events for punters. The 'Breakfast with the
is especially significant, as every thoroughbred horse inStars' event features live commentary, celebrity
the world is descended from three Arabian stallionsinterviews with top guests and live entertainment, with
which were originally exported from the Middle East:a lavish breakfast buffet that is served on the lawns
the Darley Arabian, the Byerley Turk and thenext to the paddock.