Dubai "Extravagant and over-the-top, and we're loving it!"

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Spectator Sports in Dubai, UAE

Horse Racing in Dubai - There is a regular programme of racing throughout the winter months, April to October, at the Nad Al Sheba track, a first class facility 5 km from Dubai. Racing takes place at night under floodlights and there are usually 7 races per programme, admission is free. Nad Al Sheba also plays host to the world’s richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup in March.

Camel Racing in Dubai  - Camel racing is a traditional Arab winter season sport and is generations old. The best camels owned by Sheikhs can fetch many millions of dirhams It is such a curious sport with sand courses located in the desert in Al Awir and Nad Al Sheba in Dubai and several tracks in neighbouring emirates. Races take place early morning, usually on Thursday, Friday and Festival days and are run over 5km, entrance is free. The camels race at their own pace mixing a galloping gait, fast trotting, ambling and walking. Once young jockeys from the age of six were used for their light weight but now remote controlled robot jockeys are used. The course at Nad Al Sheba also has a modern falconry building which is well worth a visit.

Motor Sports in Dubai - The Autodrome at Motor City, 10km from Dubai is home to gokarting and sports saloon car racing. Entrance is free. A regular programme of events takes place throughout the winter months including rounds of the FIA GT Championship. Dubai is also well placed to one day host a FI Grand Prix. There is also a go kart track and a motor cross circuit very close to the Jebal Ali Hotel. Abu Dhabi will host a FI GP this year at Yas Island.

Power Boat Racing in Dubai - The Gadolphin power boat stable, sponsored by the Ruler of Dubai, holds local and international races at Mina Seyahi. Spectator viewing from the beach or from the marina give excellent vantage points to see the whole race out at sea but close to the beach.

Dhow Racing in Dubai - There is a limited programme of dhow racing which takes place off Jumeira Beach throughout the year. It is a wonderful sight to see these old and not so old traditionally built dhows under full sail. Races are early morning and viewing from the beach is free and greatly encouraged

Horse Polo in Dubai - There are two floodlit venues, at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club at the Arabian Ranches, 10km from Dubai and Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, 25km from Dubai. Local and international matches are held between April and October. Restaurant and other sports facilities are available for non members.

Rugby in Dubai - Rugby union is well supported and there are local league fixtures every Friday throughout the winter months. The club which has 5 floodlit pitches has recently moved to Nad Al Sheba. Dubai is host to the Dubai Sevens and in 2009 will host the World Sevens. There is also good rugby to be seen at Sharjah Wanderers Club, 10km from Dubai. Clubs have excellent club house facilities with restaurants and licenced bars.

Golf in Dubai - Golf is a wonderful spectator sport in Dubai. The Emirates Golf Course is home to the annual Desert Classic in February and the Ladies Masters in December. The Race to Dubai will be hosted at the new Greg Norman designed Earth Course at the end of this year.
 

Events

UAE Desert Challenge

Starts: Thursday 1 October
Ends: Friday 30 October