Jebel Ali Racecourse
Coordinates25°05′07″N 55°11′12″E / 25.0853°N 55.1866°E / 25.0853; 55.1866
Date opened1990
Race typeThoroughbred, Arab - Flat racing
Course typeDirt
Notable racesJebel Ali Mile
Official website

Jebel Ali Racecourse is a renowned horse racing venue in the vibrant city of Dubai, United  Arab Emirates (UAE). Nestled in the picturesque Jebel Ali district, the racecourse holds a  prominent place in the UAE's equestrian heritage and has become an iconic destination for  horse racing enthusiasts, both locally and internationally. Established in 1990, Jebel Ali  Racecourse has evolved into a celebrated fixture on the global racing calendar, offering  thrilling races in a captivating setting.

History

The inception of Jebel Ali Racecourse can be attributed to the visionary efforts of H.H Sheikh Ahmed, who conceived the idea of creating a world-class racing facility in the region. With unwavering dedication and support from key stakeholders, H.H Sheikh Ahmed laid the foundation of the racecourse in 1990 Since then, the racecourse has witnessed remarkable growth and transformation, establishing itself as one of the finest equine sports venues in the Middle East. Lieutenant General His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Services—an avid horseman who won big European races with the famous yellow and black silk colour. In 1982 wassal, won for H.H Sheikh Ahmed the Irish 2000 Guineasand the craven stakes, later other horses owned by H.H Sheikh Ahmed won the 1000 Guineas, Irish Oaks, Irsih St Lager, Dewhurst stakes, Gold Cup, Dubai golden shaheen, UAE 2000 Guineas, Italian derby, Prince of WalesStakes, Coral Eclipse Stakes, Pretty Polly stakes and King George VI and Queen Elizabeth stake Australia Mototo, Shiekh Ahmed's most celebrated stallion, won seven out of ten races throughout his racing career that lasted between 1985 and 1988, the most notable of which was King George VI and Queen Elizabeth stakes in 1988. Following specifications laid down by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the track and grandstand were constructed in 1990 and are one of the oldest racetracks in the region. A further level was added to the grandstand in 1995 to accommodate corporate hospitality guests; it became the iconic race venue in the city's heart. Jarc is truly remarkable, and the sights, sounds, and atmosphere are breathtaking.[1]

Description

The racecourse is a 2200 metres right-handed horseshoe-shaped dirt track with a 900 metres straight. A chute enables sprint races of up to 1400 metres to be run over a straight course. The course features a steep uphill finish. The track surface is composed of sand and oil.[2] Jebel Ali Racecourse has been described as "cramped and appealingly frayed at the edges" with "a particularly carefree atmosphere".[3]

Major races

Group 3

Race Name Dist. (m) Surface Age/Sex
Jebel Ali Mile 1,600 Dirt 4yo+

Listed races

Race Name Dist. (m) Surface Age/Sex
Jebel Ali Stakes 1,950 Dirt 4yo+
Jebel Ali Sprint1,000Dirt3yo+

[4]

JEBEL ALI RACECOURSE FACILITIES

Jebel Ali Racecourse boasts a comprehensive array of modern facilities designed to provide a seamless racing experience for spectators, participants, and horse owners alike. Key features of the racecourse include

  • The Grandstand: A magnificent structure that stands as the centerpiece of Jebel Ali Racecourse, offering panoramic views of the racetrack and the surrounding landscapes. The grandstand accommodates thousands of spectators and provides ample seating, hospitality suites, and dining options.
  • Horsemen Garden: This is a very welcoming and excellent vibe seating area at JARC, features VIP seating arrangements, and is an environmentally friendly space where you can enjoy the race while having fun and having a picnic with live music, activity and entertainment. The Horsemen Garden is designed to cater to families, friends, and individuals seeking a leisurely day out amidst the excitement of horse racing. The picnic setup within the garden features well-maintained grassy areas, comfortable seating arrangements, and shaded spots where visitors can set up their picnics. Families often gather here, spreading out picnic blankets and sharing delicious meals while savoring the electric atmosphere of the races.
  • Public Garden: Apart from the Horsemen Garden, Jebel Ali Racecourse also features a beautiful and expansive Public Garden. This well-tended green space is open to the general public and offers a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling atmosphere of the racecourse.
  • The Track: The meticulously maintained dirt track at Jebel Ali is renowned for its exceptional racing surface, offering a challenging yet fair course for competitors. The track has a reputation for producing thrilling races with close finishes, making it a favorite among jockeys and horse trainers. The track is a 2200 meters right-handed horseshoe-shaped dirt track with a 900 meters straight. A chute enables sprint races of up to 1400 meters to be run over a straight course. The course features a steep uphill finish. The track surface is composed of sand and oil. Jebel Ali Racecourse has been described as "cramped and appealingly frayed at the edges" with "a particularly carefree atmosphere"
  • Hospitality and Dining: The racecourse offers a diverse range of hospitality options to elevate the race day experience for guests. From luxury suites with exclusive views to casual dining areas, visitors can savor the excitement of horse racing while enjoying exceptional service and delectable cuisine.
  • Stables and Training Facilities: Jebel Ali Racecourse is equipped with world-class stabling and training areas to cater to the needs of the competing horses. The stables adhere to the highest standards of equine welfare and offer top-notch amenities to ensure the well-being of the racehorses.
  • Media and Broadcast Facilities: Jebel Ali Racecourse features modern media and broadcast facilities, enabling the global audience to witness the racing action through high-quality live coverage and streaming services.

Racing Events

Jebel Ali Racecourse hosts an exciting calendar of racing events that draw enthusiastic participation from local and international racing communities. Some of the notable races conducted at the venue include.

  • Jebel Ali Stakes: An esteemed Group 3 race featuring top-class thoroughbreds competing over a [distance] distance. The Jebel Ali Stakes attracts some of the finest racehorses, jockeys, and trainers, providing a spectacle of speed and skill.
  • Jebel Ali Mile: Another prestigious Group 3 race that showcases the talents of horses capable of excelling over the one-mile distance. The Jebel Ali Mile is known for its competitive field and electrifying atmosphere.
  • Jebel Ali Sprint: A highly anticipated Listed race that draws sprinters from far and wide to compete for victory. The Jebel Ali Sprint is a thrilling dash to the finish line, captivating spectators with its high-speed action.
  • Jebel Ali Classic: This event showcases emerging talent in the world of horse racing. It provides an opportunity for young horses to display their potential and compete against their peers.
  • Jebel Ali Port Handicap: A popular handicap race that brings together a diverse range of racehorses, each carrying varying weights based on their past performance. The Jebel Ali Port Handicap adds an element of unpredictability to the racing proceedings.

Cultural Impact

Jebel Ali Racecourse holds a special place in the heart of the UAE's equestrian community and serves as a cultural landmark reflecting the nation's passion for horses and racing. The racecourse's captivating ambiance and high-quality events contribute significantly to the growth of equestrian tourism in Dubai, attracting racing enthusiasts and tourists from all corners of the world.

Access and Location

Jebel Ali Racecourse benefits from its strategic location in the Barsha heights of Dubai,The racecourse is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including road networks and public transport, making it convenient for both local residents and international visitors to attend the races. Events outside of horse racing- Outside of horse races, JARC organize events including skydiving, Spartans and Tough Mudder.

Conclusion

Jebel Ali Racecourse stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to fostering the sport of horse racing and maintaining its equestrian heritage. With its awe-inspiring facilities, top-notch racing events, and scenic surroundings, the racecourse continues to enchant spectators and participants alike, solidifying Dubai's position as a global hub for sports, leisure, and world-class entertainment.

References

  1. ↑ "Jebel Ali". Emirates Racing Authority.
  2. ↑ "The Track at Jebel Ali Racecourse". Emirates Racing Authority.
  3. ↑ "Why it's time to visit Jebel Ali racecourse, Dubai's hidden treasure". The National.
  4. ↑ "UAE races, IFHA Blue Book" (PDF).
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