Your complete guide to the Dubai World Cup 2025

What’s on, where to book, and what to wear…

It’s one of the Dubai social calendar’s most glittering social events, and this Saturday April 5, the Dubai World Cup returns.

Taking place at Meydan racecourse, the final race day of the season – might be the main event, but this equine extravaganza is as much about fashion as it is sports. One of the world’s richest horse races, across the nine-race card there’s a total of USD 30.5 million in prize money, plus an array of culinary and hospitality options and a dazzling closing ceremony that typically includes fireworks, drones and sensational live music.

This year is set to be no exception, so don your best outfits and get ready for an exhilarating day of fashion, sport and high-octane glamour.

When is the Dubai World Cup?

The Dubai World Cup 2025 will take place on Saturday April 5. Doors open from midday, with the first race taking place at 4.35pm and the last race lining up at 9.30pm. After the final race concludes, the show-stopping closing ceremony begins.

What are the ticket options?

The entry level tickets, priced at AED350, get you access to all the action at Apron Views. Here, you’ll find the vibrant social village, with a variety of food and beverage options. Apron Views is also home to the renowned Style Stakes competition, with incredible prizes for the best dressed. Get your tickets here.

If you’re looking for hospitality packages, perhaps the best value experience comes in the two-floor Sky Bubble, where the Grand Gallop Mega Brunch by Candypants offers a brunch package from 2.30pm to 6.30pm, with beverages available right through until 11.30pm. Seating is allocated on sharing tables of 10, and as well as an afternoon of hospitality, you can expect front row views to the sporting action plus live entertainment. Tickets start from AED 850.

While VIP hospitality packages are now sold out, regular hospitality packages are still available at The Gallery, located on Level 1 with views of the finish line; Trackside, also on level 1 but opposite the parade ring; and The Terrace, which features an outdoor seating area extending from the centre of the grandstand right to the end. Packages start from AED1,200.

What to wear?

The fashion stakes at Dubai World Cup are high – and a certain level of glamour is always expected, so this is an occasion to go all out. In terms of etiquette, a fascinator or hat is requested, and longer dresses are preferred.

If you’re yet to get your outfit for the big day, let us inspire you with our picks of 10 SS25 pieces to shop right now in time for Dubai World Cup.