29th Dubai World Cup breaks records and paves way for the future of horse racing

Updated 23 April 2025

Arab News

April 23, 2025 11:14

The 29th Dubai World Cup marked a new milestone in international horse racing, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 65,000 spectators and offering an impressive $30.5 million in prize money across nine world-class races. Capping off a thrilling season, the event showcased Dubai Racing Club’s commitment to delivering an exceptional racing experience on a truly global stage.

A spectacular closing ceremony featuring a triple Guinness World Record-breaking drone and fireworks display lit up Meydan Racecourse, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation for combining sport, innovation, and entertainment.

One of the most anticipated events on the international racing calendar, the Dubai World Cup welcomed a record 170 global broadcasters and nearly 500 accredited media professionals, bringing the excitement from the track to screens globally. From thrilling races to exclusive hospitality, the energy was palpable both on-site and worldwide.

The season’s success extended beyond the main event. The Dubai Racing Carnival, which runs from November to March, saw a 34 percent rise in attendance, a testament to Dubai’s growing appeal in the sport. Highlights included the much-anticipated Fashion Friday on Jan. 24, where Romantic Warrior secured his 10th Group 1 win in Jebel Hatta. International winners from the UK, France, Hong Kong, and Norway further underlined the carnival’s global competitiveness.

This season showcased strong infrastructure and global reach, largely due to Dubai’s strategic location and its advanced equine transport and quarantine facilities. These factors position Dubai as a premier hub for international horse racing. Each year, the Dubai Racing Club’s International Department imports and quarantines around 3,000 horses. This process facilitates smooth participation for competitors from around the world and strengthens the city’s reputation as a leading destination for racing events.

As in previous seasons, innovation was crucial, featuring new technologies such as drone-based coverage and advanced analytics through Total Performance Data. These improvements enhanced the viewing experience and offered valuable insights for fans, trainers, and analysts, all while maintaining the highest safety standards for horses, jockeys, and spectators.

One of the most spectacular viral moments was the drone and fireworks display during the Dubai World Cup closing ceremony. This event not only broke three Guinness World Records but also showcased a commitment to innovation.

“These moments captivate our guests and project Dubai’s excellence on a global stage, showcasing what’s possible when cutting-edge technology and visionary event design come together,” said Sophie Ryan, head of corporate communications, marketing and brand at Dubai Racing Club.

Beyond the racing, Meydan Racecourse evolved into a full-fledged lifestyle destination. The venue offered luxury suites, exclusive balconies, and high-end culinary experiences from restaurants including The MAINE, Beau, and Cipriani Dolci. Popular events like Ladies’ Nights and the Style Stakes fashion competition added flair to the festivities, underscoring Dubai’s blend of tradition and modern luxury.

As for fashion, it remains a core part of the racing culture in Dubai. This season’s Style Stakes, sponsored by Emaar, elevated the glamor with bold self-expression and cultural flair. From the elegance of Fashion Friday to Emirates Super Saturday, racegoers embraced the spirit of individuality. For the first time, Dubai Racing Club also introduced a Millinery Exhibition, celebrating the artistry of hat-making and offering a new opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to shop one of the most essential elements of the horse racing outfit.

What can we anticipate for the upcoming seasons?

As preparations begin for the 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026, Dubai Racing Club is deepening global partnerships with organizations like Churchill Downs and The Jockey Club. With new hospitality collaborations on the horizon, the future promises an even more immersive and world-class experience for racing fans. “The 30th anniversary of the Dubai World Cup in 2026 will deliver the most memorable celebration, setting a new benchmark for the sport,” added Ryan.

As the curtain falls on an unforgettable season, one thing is clear — Dubai Racing Club is not just hosting the future of horse racing; it is defining it.

With Maaden partnership, LIV Golf rebrands US event

Updated 10 May 2025

Arab News

May 10, 2025 22:33

With Maaden partnership, LIV Golf rebrands US event

Updated 10 May 2025

Arab News

May 10, 2025 22:33

LIV Golf unveiled a new identity for its eighth event on the 2025 schedule: LIV Golf Virginia presented by Maaden. The next stop on the league’s calendar will be held on June 6-8 at northern Virginia’s iconic Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, host of the first four Presidents Cup tournaments in the US and the Solheim Cup last September. The new naming rights reflect the league’s connection to the Commonwealth of Virginia and underscore the state’s bold vision to elevate professional golf through innovation, entertainment, and global reach.

Evolving from its former name LIV Golf DC, the tournament embraces Virginia’s distinct regional pride while advancing LIV Golf’s mission to build the sport’s most forward-thinking global league. Developed in collaboration with the Virginia Tourism Corporation and LIV Golf partner Maaden, one of the world’s fastest-growing mining and metals companies headquartered in Saudi Arabia, the event champions community engagement and cross-sector innovation.

“With LIV Golf Virginia presented by Maaden, we’re strengthening our connection to the Commonwealth and celebrating the local pride that drives this world-class event,” said Ross Hallett, executive vice president and head of events at LIV Golf. “This evolution reflects our mission of bringing bold energy, global vision, and an unforgettable next-gen fan experience to every stop on our schedule.”

As part of the announcement, Saudi Arabian Mining Company, known as Maaden, has launched their new partnership-focused campaign titled “Unearth Your Potential.” The campaign features LIV Golf stars Bryson DeChambeau, Sergio Garcia and Carlos Ortiz showing off their skills in a closest to the hole challenge, unveiling a mix of strategy, teamwork and fun that embody the league’s identity. “Unearth Your Potential” is inspired by LIV Golf’s impact and sustainability strategy and highlights the dedication to craft that is needed from both golfers and professionals alike to unearth and maximize their potential — both within the world of golf and within the mining industry.

Bob Wilt, CEO at Maaden, said: “LIV Golf Virginia presented by Maaden is more than a tournament — it’s a powerful expression of global collaboration and shared ambition. Our partnership with LIV Golf reflects a mutual drive to innovate, inspire and shape what’s next, both on the course and far beyond it.”

Maaden’s partnership brings bold branding, immersive activations, and elevated hospitality to the event. The event will showcase LIV Golf’s signature format: 54 holes of high-energy individual and team-based competition with unrivaled access, nonstop action, and an atmosphere that blends elite golf with culture, music, and digital engagement — hallmarks of the LIV Golf experience.

TDF to promote Saudi investment at Future Hospitality Summit

Updated 10 May 2025

Arab News

May 10, 2025 22:32

TDF to promote Saudi investment at Future Hospitality Summit

Updated 10 May 2025

Arab News

May 10, 2025 22:32

The Tourism Development Fund, the Kingdom’s tourism enabler, has announced it will serve as an enablement partner in the Future Hospitality Summit Saudi Arabia. The event is scheduled to take place in Riyadh from May 11 to 13, and will bring together global decision-makers and investors to explore opportunities in hospitality, promote knowledge exchange, and support startups and entrepreneurs in the sector.

TDF CEO Qusai Al-Fakhri said that the fund’s role extends beyond financial support and fosters connections between investment opportunities and local talent. “Our participation in the summit aims to accelerate this communication and broaden its impact across the Kingdom through hospitality projects and other initiatives that elevate the tourist experience and support sustainable economic growth,” Al-Fakhri said.

At its pavilion during the summit, TDF will present direct and indirect financing solutions. It will also feature non-financial initiatives from TDF Grow, which supports startups and small and medium-sized enterprises, develops national talent, and accelerates the growth of specialized projects throughout Saudi Arabia. The fund is also set to join a key panel discussion addressing tourism market shifts, exploring new investment prospects, and outlining TDF’s vision to build investor confidence while maintaining quality and returns.

TDF’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing the tourism sector by positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading investment destination and global hospitality hub, while highlighting the fund’s role as the Kingdom’s primary tourism enabler.

The summit is expected to attract more than 100 speakers, 280 investors, and 90 sponsors and partners from around the world.

HODL Summit: Dubai to host longest-running crypto & Web3 gathering

Updated 09 May 2025

Arab News

May 09, 2025 10:59

HODL Summit: Dubai to host longest-running crypto & Web3 gathering

Updated 09 May 2025

Arab News

May 09, 2025 10:59

Dubai is set to host the 30th global edition of the HODL Summit, the world’s longest-running crypto and Web3 summit series, on May 14–15 at Madinat Jumeirah.

Formerly known as the World Blockchain Summit, HODL Summit has become a premier platform for blockchain and Web3 innovation.

Organized by Trescon, this flagship event will bring together over 5,000 Web3 innovators, investors, and industry leaders from 60+ countries to explore the future of blockchain, decentralized finance, and digital assets.

With the Web3 ecosystem rapidly evolving, HODL has emerged as a powerful launchpad for next-generation blockchain solutions, policy discussions, and cross-border investments.

The summit will feature a rich agenda of panel discussions, startup showcases, closed-door investor roundtables, and networking zones aimed at catalyzing business outcomes.

The 2025 edition will feature over 40 sessions and a distinguished lineup of 50+ speakers, including Corbin Fraser, CEO of Bitcoin.com, Nils Andersen-Röed, global head of FIU of Binance, Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget, Rifad Mahasneh, CEO MENA of OKX, and Hasan Fardan Al-Fardan, CEO of Al Fardan Exchange.

These industry leaders will share insights on topics such as real-world asset tokenization, AI integration, Layer-2 solutions, modular blockchain architectures, next-gen DeFi models, NFTs, and the expanding role of blockchain in enterprise innovation.

The exhibition arena will feature leading blockchain and Web3 companies showcasing cutting-edge solutions across DeFi, digital assets, infrastructure, security, and enterprise tech.

From product launches to live demos, the exhibition offers attendees direct access to the latest innovations shaping the decentralized economy.

One of the key highlights of HODL 2025 is the UAE Regional Round of the Startup World Cup, held in partnership with Pegasus Tech Ventures, where startups will present their ideas to a curated audience of investors, venture capital firms, and accelerators and compete for a $1 million investment.

Attendees can look forward to engaging in collaborative discussions on governance, tokenization, and interoperability, gaining practical insights to address real-world challenges in the blockchain space.

HODL’s track record speaks for itself. Since its inception in 2017, the summit has hosted 29 global editions in cities including Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok, building a legacy of connecting startups with capital, governments with policy ideas, and enterprises with innovation partners.

As Dubai continues to establish itself as a global hub for digital assets and blockchain regulation, HODL 2025 further cements the city’s position as a magnet for transformative tech and capital.

With its strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and progressive regulatory environment, Dubai offers the ideal setting for global blockchain leaders to chart the next chapter in Web3.

Meena Health launches Riyadh’s first occupational health center

Updated 08 May 2025

Arab News

May 08, 2025 12:15

Meena Health launches Riyadh’s first occupational health center

Updated 08 May 2025

Arab News

May 08, 2025 12:15

Meena Health has officially opened the Meena Occupational Health Center in Riyadh — the first dedicated facility in the capital to provide specialized healthcare services focused exclusively on occupational health and safety. The launch marks a major milestone in advancing preventive care for the Kingdom’s workforce and aligns with broader national efforts to foster healthier, safer work environments.

Coinciding with the center’s inauguration, Meena Health also signed a series of strategic agreements and MoUs, reinforcing its leadership position in the field and its growing role within Saudi Arabia’s evolving healthcare landscape.

The Meena Occupational Health Center offers an integrated suite of services that includes pre-employment medical evaluations, periodic employee health checkups, and specialized assessments for high-risk industries such as aviation and maritime. The facility also provides rehabilitation services and disability assessments, all designed to foster a culture of prevention, support regulatory compliance, and elevate occupational health standards nationwide.

To bring healthcare closer to the workplace, Meena Health signed a cooperation agreement to establish on-site clinics at company locations, allowing employees to access care conveniently within their work environments. Additionally, a new MoU will facilitate the delivery of medical fitness examinations for both new and existing employees, enhancing workforce readiness and reducing occupational health risks.

The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has designated Meena Occupational Health Center as a center of excellence. This acknowledgment highlights the center’s role in preventive occupational healthcare and its contribution to building safe, sustainable workplaces in line with global best practices.

Moreover, Meena Academy signed an academic partnership with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The collaboration will focus on developing national talent through specialized training and education programs tailored to the occupational health sector.

Dr. Suleiman Al-Towayan, CEO of Meena Health, emphasized the significance of this launch as a transformative step toward improving employee well-being across Saudi Arabia. “Opening Riyadh’s first specialized occupational health center sets a new benchmark for workplace health and safety in the Kingdom.” he said. “It reflects our commitment to advancing the goals of Vision 2030 by promoting a proactive approach to healthcare through early screening, home care, telemedicine, and now, specialized occupational services.”

He added: “At Meena Health, we believe that prevention is better than cure. This belief drives everything we do.”

With the launch of its first specialized occupational health center in Riyadh, Meena Health is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of workplace wellness in Saudi Arabia. The company remains committed to advancing preventive healthcare, strengthening strategic partnerships, and supporting the Kingdom’s journey toward a more resilient and healthier workforce.

Saudi brands set sail for growth at Floating Franchise Expo

Updated 07 May 2025

Arab News

May 07, 2025 22:01

Saudi brands set sail for growth at Floating Franchise Expo

Updated 07 May 2025

Arab News

May 07, 2025 22:01

The first-ever International Floating Franchise Expo officially launched aboard the luxurious cruise ship Aroya Cruises on May 5. This pioneering initiative, featuring the participation of top entrepreneurs, investors, and representatives from both Saudi and international brands, will empower Saudi brands to expand locally and globally, while promoting collaboration and investment in the franchise sector.

Opening ceremony

The event commenced with an introductory video showcasing the mission and objectives of the National Franchise Committee, followed by the Saudi national anthem. Salman Al-Anzi delivered the opening speech, followed by remarks from Dr. Khalid Al-Ghamdi, chairman of the National Franchise Committee. The event continued with speeches from strategic partners, namely, Mohammed Yousuf Naghi, chairman of Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Mohammed Al-Ouhali, director general of agriculture, food production and franchising at the Ministry of Investment; Nawaf Al-Ruwais, vice president of Monsha’at; and Abdullah bin Saad Al-Ruwais, vice president for business sector at the Social Development Bank.

Global expansion

Al-Ghamdi said that the franchise sector in the Kingdom is witnessing rapid growth, reflecting market maturity and strong investor confidence. He noted that the floating expo is more than just a platform to showcase opportunities — it marks a significant step in exporting “Saudi franchises to the world,” aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for economic diversification and investment promotion.

Al-Ghamdi also unveiled three key initiatives launched during the expo:

• The establishment of a national company to support export-oriented franchises

• The launch of a platform to facilitate international expansion of Saudi brands

• The creation of an investment fund to support global expansion of Saudi trademarks

He further highlighted the growing global interest in Saudi products, known for their quality and reliability. To date, more than 204 Saudi brands have been listed on the national franchise platform, with franchise registration increasing by 866 percent over the past three years, reaching a total of 1,788 registered franchise agreements.

Promising figures

Ibrahim Al-Hussein, director of franchise services at Monsha’at, said that the expo represents a strategic step to empower the franchise ecosystem. By the end of 2024, the number of operating franchise brands had surpassed 1,200 — a 38 percent increase over the previous year. The platform currently offers more than 22,000 franchise opportunities for investors.

He also noted that the Franchise Center has provided more than 5,000 consultations since its inception, evaluated the eligibility of over 1,900 brands, and licensed more than 300 franchise brokers. The center continues to play a key role in dispute resolution and supporting brand development through specialized training and advisory programs.

Investment support

Al-Ouhali of the Ministry of Investment highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to streamlining investment processes through advanced digital services and targeted incentives, while also enhancing transparency and governance.

He said that the Kingdom is experiencing a “golden era” of investment opportunities, with sustained support for investors from setup to operation, in full alignment with Vision 2030 objectives.

Fostering partnerships

The expo witnessed the signing of several MoUs between the National Franchise Committee and the Social Development Bank, Monsha’at, and the Restaurant and Café Owners Association, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration among key stakeholders in the franchise sector.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, sponsors were honored by the National Franchise Committee and the Federation of Saudi Chambers. Participating brand representatives were also recognized for their contribution to this landmark event.

A platform for growth

The expo continues for three days until May 8 aboard Aroya Cruises, one of the Public Investment Fund’s flagship projects. The event offers an exceptional experience that blends business, investment, and tourism, with the goal of promoting shared franchising models and fostering collaboration between local and international brands.

29th Dubai World Cup breaks records and paves way for the future of horse racing