The 29th edition of the Dubai World Cup concluded in grand fashion at the Meydan Racecourse on Saturday night, celebrating not only elite competition but also Dubai’s stature as a global epicentre for equestrian sports. The closing ceremonies set a new Guinness World Record for the largest flying LED screen, which was formed by using 5,983 drones.
The event was also marked by dazzling fireworks, drone shows and various competitions. The drone shows captivated the spectators with dynamic 3D formations, including portraits of the UAE leaders, galloping horses and the World Cup trophy, while the fireworks added to the spectacle, lighting up the night sky. The synchronised display stretched across the racecourse, blending technology and artistry. The performance celebrated the UAE’s deep equestrian heritage, symbolising national pride.
The event brought together 102 horses from 13 countries, competing in nine exhilarating races with a record prize pool of USD 30.5 million. In a historic moment, Hit Show, owned by Wathnan Racing in Qatar and ridden by jockey Florent Geroux, claimed the USD 12 million top prize, a record-breaking prize in global horse racing. The main event was watched live by over 60,000 spectators at Meydan, with more than 1 billion viewers following the action across 170 countries via TV, digital platforms and in-flight broadcasts.