A night at the Races

From November to March, Thursday night is race night at Nad Al Sheba Racetrack in Dubai (Fridays are race night at Jebel Ali Racecourse). Horse racing is a big business in Dubai. The local royalty is passionate about it and their GoDolphin Stables have some of the best horses racing around the world (they won at least 4 of the 10 races Thursday night).

Ricky and I decided to take in a night at the races this week. We eschewed some friendly advice about taking a taxi and drove to the track...probably a mistake first time out, since we got a little turned around and arrived a little late. Plus, you have to park in the public parking and take a bus to the track. Parking and Admission are free, unless you want access to the bar or dining area. In hindsight, we are a very short taxi ride and will probably take the taxi next time out.

Since we were late, we missed the big contest for the night, which is the Pick 7. You fill out a card and pick the winners of the first 7 races (3 winners, split $50,000 Thursday night). The contest is free--there is no gambling at the track; unless you have a friendly wager amongst your friends. I took 10 dirhams ($2.70) off Ricky since my horse bettered his in 3 of the 5 races we watched.

Unlike in the US, since there is no gambling, children are allowed at the track. And lots of families show up. There is a childrens play area and clowns. Since admission is free, many of the laborers attend the festivities. They put blankets out on the lawn and have picnics and play cards.

We paid 50 dhm ($14) to access the Trackside Bar, which was actually about 50 meters from trackside. Hopefully before the season is over, I plan to get a date or friends and try the dining room ($100). It's supposed to be very nice.

The season ends in late March with the Dubai World Cup...the richest horse race in the world. I will probably skip it this year, but next year I think it will be something very special. (Are you reading, JX? Plan on a trip to Dubai next March). Next November they are opening the new Meydan Racecourse, currently under construction right outside the front door of Nad Al Sheba. The place is huge and should be first class. As soon as the current season ends, the Nad Al Sheba facility will disappear and become the track area for the new grandstand.

Even without the pleasures of 'playing the ponies' it was a very nice relaxing evening.

PS: In the photos, it looks a little foggy, but it's actually dust--we got hit with a sandstorm Tues night and even 5 days later, the sky is still very dusty and hazy.