The inaugural race meeting at Dubai’s Meydan Racecourse, an ambitious multi-billion-dollar project being built adjacent to Nad al Sheba racecourse, will begin with the start of the 2010 Dubai International Racing Carnival (DIRC) on January 28.

The Dubai Racing Club on Tuesday released the schedule for the 2010 carnival leading up to the Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1), and the opening card features the Al Maktoum Challenge-Round 1 (UAE-G3).

“The 2010 DIRC is not only a highlight for the international racing community, but also a source of local pride with the opening of Meydan Racecourse,” Emirates Racing Authority Board member Malih Lahej Al Basti said.

“This state-of-the-art complex will not only complement the growing global appeal of Dubai as a racing destination, but also build on the indigenous passion for horses embedded in UAE culture.”

The 76-million-square-foot project includes a hotel, a museum, ten restaurants, a marina, an IMAX theater, a canal, and space to park more than 10,000 automobiles. The ambitious project was unveiled on the eve of the 2007 Dubai World Cup, and work began on the site less than 12 hours after that night's final race.

“In the seven years since the initial Dubai International Racing Carnival was staged, there have been many poignant moments, from spectacular victories and nail-biting near misses to the revelation that plans had been put into place to build the ultimate horse racing venue,” said Frank Gabriel Jr., chief executive officer of the Dubai Racing Club.

The Dubai World Cup (UAE-G1) program will be held on March 27, 2010, at Meydan after 14 years at Nad al Sheba. The Al Maktoum Challenge-Round 3 and the United Arab Emirates Two Thousand Guineas (UAE-G3) will be held on February 18. The 1,600-meter (7.95-furlong) Al Fahidi Fort (UAE-G2) is slated for February 19 and the Super Thursday card will be held on March 4.

Super Thursday features six stakes that serve as prep races for the Dubai World Cup card.

Dubai International Racing Carnival 2010
Group and Listed Stakes