Dubai offers a world-class sports experience for fans. Specifically, the Emirate provides the stage for some of the world’s most intense sports tournaments, enhancing its position as a global destination for sports fans.
In recent years, sports tourism has grown and become the main growth of Dubai tourism. The sports tourist contribution to Dubai’s economy exceeded 9 billion AED (2.45 billion USD) in 2021 alone.
Saeed Hareb, General Secretary of the Dubai Sports Council, said, “Dubai plays a role as a major sports destination, governed by the vision of our leadership, who deeply understand the role of sport for the development of a global metropolis.”
Thanks to its ideal weather conditions, suitable infrastructure, and world-class hospitality, Dubai has become the host of many international sports events.
The global destination for luxury sport – Golf
With the right weather conditions and perfectly designed lawns, Dubai is often the venue for international golf tournaments. Recently, Dubai attracted the attention of the global golf communities, when the Dubai Desert Classic attracted many big golf stars. Dubai Desert Classic is the top attraction of the European Tour – Europe’s largest golf tournament system with prize money of up to 8 million USD. Around 65,000 spectators watched the prestigious tournament, 18,000 of which were international golf fans.
Dramatic horse races
Dubai possesses the Meydan Racecourse, having a capacity of up to 60,000 people and a total construction cost of about $1.5 billion USD. Besides the racetrack, there are hotels and rooms of high-class type, museums, and marinas to serve visitors. The Dubai World Cup, the largest horse racing destination in the world, takes place here. Therefore, it attracts the attention of many international fans.
Special cricket tournament
Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai organizes another multi-stage tournament this winter, the DP World International League T20 (ILT20). This sport also attracts many foreign fans. Therefore, participating in the global cricket tournament is a unique experience in Dubai.
The oldest Dubai Marathon
This year, Dubai hosted the 22nd Dubai Marathon, the oldest marathon in the region and one of the fastest in the world. Held on February 12, the event brought together athletes worldwide to join the race.
