Abu Dhabi Gold Cup Day is set to evolve into a major new highlight on the horse racing calendar, following the announcement of a new Thoroughbred race and a rebranded Purebred Arabian feature, further strengthening the United Arab Emirates’ status as a premier international racing destination.
“We are proud to announce the launch of the USD$1 million Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, which will be held on February 7,” said Dayle Brown, Racecourse Director at the Abu Dhabi Turf Club.
“While the Abu Dhabi Turf Club has a proud heritage in Purebred Arabian racing, we are also focused on expanding our Thoroughbred program across the season to further enhance the depth and appeal of our racing calendar.”
Led by His Excellency Director General Ali Al Shaiba, the club’s Executive team started strategic conversations last season on how to attract and retain high calibre horses within the region, particularly those participating in Dubai’s renowned racing carnival.
The objective was to explore ways to grow the existing race programme and encourage horses competing in Dubai to remain in the UAE.
“It makes far more sense for them to race here during that window, before returning for Super Saturday and the remainder of the Dubai Carnival”, said Brown.
This collaborative approach reflects a broader vision of unity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s racing administrators. By aligning schedules and creating complementary opportunities, both racecourses can strengthen the UAE’s overall appeal to international connections while enriching the local racing scene.
Adding “I think you’ve got to provide the opportunity for our local people to compete and race in the best races. But also bring that element of European and international runners.”
Set to become one of the richest Listed races in the world, the event which will be held February 7th 2026, has already attracted significant attention both locally and internationally. Run over 1600 metres on turf under Weight-for-Age conditions, it is open to Thoroughbreds rated 95 and above. A 3kg allowance will be granted to three-year-olds, with a 2kg allowance for fillies and mares.
As part of the updated programme, the race day will also feature a rebranded AED1 million Purebred Arabian contest. Formerly known as the Abu Dhabi Gold Cup, the race will now be called the Alanudd Classic (2200m), in honour of the celebrated Arabian mare who was raced by the founder of the UAE, the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
“This new race will provide an exciting opportunity for Purebred Arabians to compete at the highest level,” he added. “At the same time, we’re enhancing the spectator experience, enabling fans to get closer to the action and truly feel the thrill as the horses cross the finish line.”
With these progressive steps, Abu Dhabi Gold Cup Day on 7th February 2026 is set to grow into an even more dynamic, engaging, and internationally competitive event, solidifying its place at the heart of the UAE’s world class racing landscape.