To protect the ‘well-being of residents and guests’
The Dubai World Cup has been officially postponed due to the global coronavirus outbreak.
The 25th annual UAE-based horse race was scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 28 at the Meydan Racecourse.
Initially, the event had been scaled back to have general spectators or paid hospitality as a safety precaution. However, due to growing concerns surrounding the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, the whole event has been postponed until 2021.
“In the interest of the health and safety of all participants, the higher organizing committee of the Dubai World Cup 2020 has decided to postpone the 25th edition of the global tournament to next year,” the Dubai Media Office said in a statement.
Similarly, the Dubai Racing Club also made a statement explaining it was their “duty” to protect the “well-being of residents and guests”.
“Further to the UAE Government’s precautionary measures against the virus, we believe it is our duty to help protect the well-being of residents and guests,” their statement said. “We would like to extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all the stakeholders of the Dubai World Cup, and we hope to welcome all participants and guests next year.”
The announcement came on the same day the UAE government issued a statement urging everyone not to leave their homes, unless it’s “absolutely necessary” to get essential supplies like food and medicine, or if you are person in an essential job.
Last night a joint statement was issued by the Ministry of Interior and the National Emergency and Crisis and Disasters Management Authority telling all UAE citizens, residents, vistors and everyone living in the country to follow the guidelines that have been issued: limit social interactions and avoid going to crowded places.
“The public are also urged to use their own family cars with a maximum of three individuals per vehicle,” the statement continued.”They are also advised not to visit public places and maintain social distancing protocols during family gatherings as part of the precautionary measures taken to ensure public health and safety,” added the statement.
The public has also been told not to visit hospitals unless cases are emergent or critical. If visiting, the use of face masks is urged.
More information on coronavirus:
- Tips on how to prevent the spreading of coronavirus
- Coronavirus in the UAE: Food and supplies to stock up on
- Coronavirus in the UAE: What the visa suspension means for you
Feature image: Rosanna Global
