There’s a new horse racing venue set to open at Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia. The development will celebrate the Kingdom’s deep equestrian roots while setting a new standard for global racing infrastructure.
Qiddiya Horse Racing Venue To Host Saudi Cup In Landmark Move For Saudi Sport
According to a report by press release, the venue will become the new permanent home of the Group 1 USD 20 million Saudi Cup. The current venue is King Abdulaziz Racecourse in Riyadh. The Saudi Cup, widely known as the world’s richest horse race, will relocate to Qiddiya after its current season. This marks a major shift in the region’s racing map.
A World-Class Racing Configuration
At the heart of the venue lies a flexible racing layout designed for international formats and peak equine performance. The facility will feature the region’s first straight-mile turf course. Also, it includes a 2,200-metre main turf track and a 2,400-metre inner dirt track along three elite racing surfaces with one integrated setting.
This design allows organisers to host a wide range of race formats while giving spectators better sightlines.
Front and centre stands a 21,000-seat grandstand. On major race days, event overlays will expand capacity to 70,000 guests. That scale places Qiddiya firmly in the league of global racing destinations.
A 110-metre parade ring enhances guest experience, placing horses and jockeys at the core of the experience.
Equine Welfare Takes Priority
Modern racing demands high standards of care, and Qiddiya’s is here to deliver that.
A dedicated Equine Hospital will operate on site, offering advanced diagnostics, surgery, rehabilitation and emergency care. This move strengthens Saudi Arabia’s commitment to horse welfare and ensures that elite competition aligns with responsible treatment.
More Than Race Day
Qiddiya’s Horse Racing Venue is not designed to sit idle between major racing events like Saudi Cup.
An event’s space is incomplete without food destinations. This racing course venue would have 9 fine-dining restaurants curated by Michelin-star chefs. Expect premium hospitality lounges and social spaces. Visitors can expect a full-day experience blending sport, dining and culture.
The venue will also host the Turf Racing Festival, becoming a year-round platform for competition and celebration.
From racing fans, families, tourists, and more are likely to be spotted at this venue.
Also Read: The Most-Awaited Aquarabia Water Park In Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya To Open This Eid Al Fitr
A Strategic Shift For Saudi Racing
Qiddiya Investment Company and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding during the Asian Racing Conference. The agreement will focus on coordination, collaboration and long-term growth within the Kingdom’s racing ecosystem.
The Horse Racing Venue forms part of Qiddiya City’s wider ambition to become a national hub for sport, entertainment and culture.
Cover Image Courtesy: Qiddiya/Website
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