World's Biggest Horse Track

The ruler of Dubai isn't about to cut costs when it comes to his luxurious new Meydan horse track

Despite struggling to pay bills for his city-state’s excess, Sheikh Mohammed has spared no expense with the opening of his $2 billion Meydan horse racing facility.

The complex includes two race tracks, a grandstand that holds 60,000 fans, a five-star luxury hotel, 10 restaurants, an IMAX theatre, a pool deck, marina and a horse racing museum.

Chairman of the Board and CEO of Meydan Saeed Humaid Al Tayer said: "We've seen some of the world's finest talents in horse racing take to the tracks this evening, and we're excited at the responses we've had to the conditions and facilities we've built."

The racetrack itself has both turf and artificial circuits which will be used throughout the first season of racing at Meydan Racecourse leading up to the 15th running of the Dubai World Cup on Saturday, March 27th, a date that is also being classified as the official opening of both Meydan Racecourse and its Grandstand.

There are no signs of any tote facilities or even a bookies board, as gambling is illegal in the United Arab Emirates.

Daily Telegraph