Horse Riding: Horses play an important part of local tradition in Dubai. There are several horse riding centres in the area, which cater for the serious competitor, as well as those with a more relaxed approach to horse riding who can explore the carefully tended tracks and trails. Other options such as show jumping and dressage are available as well as rides through the desert, which are organised regularly.

 Featured horse riding centres include:

-        Jebel Ali Equestrian Club – tel. +971(0)4 399 5444

-         Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club – tel. +971(0)4 361 8111

-         Club Joumana – tel. +971(0)4 804 8058

-         Desert Palm – tel. +971(0)4 323 8888

-         Emirates Riding Centre – tel. +971(0)4 333 2224

-         Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club – tel. +971(0)6 531 1155

Nad Al Sheba Racecourse: The racecourse is home to the Dubai World Cup, the world famous horse race. The Dubai Racing Festival meets start in January and last for nine weeks but other races are held between November and April.

For free admission at certain times you can gain limited access to areas within the new Meydan Grandstand with fantastic views. You can also access the vast apron area between the track and the Grandstand where you can view the thoroughbred racehorses in the Parade Ring. There are food and beverage outlets available in the food court. It is also possible to visit the racecourse in the early morning during the winter season to watch the horses being trained.

Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club:Polo is a popular sport in Dubai. Visitors are welcome to watch one of the free polo chukkas held at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club.

Camel Riding: For those looking for something a bit different, camel riding may be the sport that interests you. Surprisingly, a racing camel can reach very high speeds at full gallop. You can watch this ancient sport at the Nad Al Sheba Camel Racecourse on selected days in the morning or afternoon during camel racing season from September to March.

If the camel-racing tempts you to have a ride yourself, head to Dubai’s largest and oldest park called Mushrif Park, which offers camel and pony rides. In addition, you can be entertained by a mini-train, a small aviary, a ‘world village’ with examples of global architecture, a fairground, sports courts, barbecue grills, shaded picnic area and swimming pools.

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