Even after more than ten years of attending racing events in Dubai and most especially the Dubai World Cup itself, one would assume that the excitement factor would wear off. It doesn't.

Dubai holds a certain excitement level like no other event in world racing. Lacking the betting element like every other major racing festival takes little away from the spectacle that is the Dubai World Cup. From prerace events to post race analysis, the week leaves fond memories. In fact leaving Dubai on that plane back home can be quite depressing.

One of the social highlights of the week has to be the welcome party arranged by Meydan and attended by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The grand entrance to the Dubai Marina venue was alive with the sounds of local men singing transitional songs to welcome guests from around the world. The annual event has an almost unlimited supply of food and drink with entertainment throughout the evening in a settings that befits the occasion against the backdrop of Dubai's Marina area skyscrapers. The entertainment this year included a sky dive performance from a team of highly skilled Parachutists who landed in the small arena in front of the awaiting crowd. The highlight of the evening was the amazing fireworks display that lit up the Dubai skyline. It is a one of a kind evening out.

The day prior to this welcome dinner, the much anticipated draw for the World Cup Races was held. The spectacle took place at Meydan Racecourse and was attended by the media and connections of the horses. The much publicised California Chrome commanded the highest profile of the event with his connections, as flamboyant as ever, taking centre stage.

One of the morning highlights of the World Cup week is the Breakfast with the Stars event. Held on the lawns of Meydan's grandstand, the event is the coming together of the public and the connections of the horses in an open discussion about the day. A full English breakfast is served and the morning allows one the opportunity of the previewing the event through the eyes of the people involved with the horses, including the jockeys and trainers; many of whom are freely available to interact with.

Dubai itself has the rich pleasures only Dubai can offer. The magnificent buildings, outstanding shopping malls, unlimited entertainment and a great nightlife, this city is alive. Different to the culture of Paris and London and the uniqueness of New York, Dubai is Dubai and is a city like no other.

Racing should be privileged to have Dubai host one of the world's great events.
 

Image of Breakfast with the Stars event