Meydan races, Dubai, UAE. What an experience! yes you can buy ‘wine and dine’ packages and sit in a ‘posh’ area!!! but don’t. Be daring and queue with the locals in their white robes, women in one line and men in another! Yes you will be looked at, but do not be worried, everyone is welcoming and interested in you! The races are a family gathering – women knitting, sewing and children everywhere, carpets, rugs picnics, it really is awesome! We sat in the grandstand which is huge, humengous and modern and was the vision of the ruler of Dubai.
Betting is illegal, but you are given ‘betting slips’ to forecast the outcome of the races and there are big money prizes to be won. The thoroughbred horses are paraded in front of you and relayed on a huge television screen.
We took a taxi from our hotel and planned a pick up point, for our return, as there are up to 10,000 people coming out at the end of the races.
This was probably the most memorable moment of any of my holidays. If you are lucky enough to visit Dubai, (we went February 1st – weather is wonderful at that time of year high 70s) do have this great experience.
