Business of Sport Contractors invited to bid for Qatar racecourse expansion By Chris Hamill-Stewart February 11, 2025, 7:10 PM Alamy/Rupert Sagar-Musgrave The Racing and Equestrian Club in Qatar organises horse racing at the Al Rayyan and Al Uqda racecourses Fourth phase at Al Uqda Significant enlargement Three years to complete Qatar has started inviting contractors to bid on the expansion of its second-largest horse racecourse. The design and build contract covers the development of the fourth phase of the Al Uqda equestrian complex. This covers expansion of the existing track, a new straight racecourse, an additional grandstand of 5,000 square metres for spectators, a new tunnel under the course and an expansion of broadcasting facilities, significantly enlarging the complex’s capacity to host events and guests. Dubai World Cup is jewel in the UAE’s $2.4bn sports sector Saudi Arabia should saddle up for soft power of horses Oman Air and Chelsea FC ‘terminate sponsorship deal’ The works are expected to take around three years to complete. The Al Uqda complex is run by the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, which was established in the early 1960s, and which puts on races there and at the Al Rayyan racecourse. Horse racing and equestrian sport has a long history in the Middle East. Arabian horses are known for their physique and capabilities, as well as their record of victories in races. The racing season is now in full swing across the Gulf. Events coming up in February include the Saudi Cup at Riyadh’s King Abdulaziz Racetrack – the world’s richest race with a $20 million prize – and the HH The Amir Sword Festival at the Al Rayyan racecourse in Qatar. In March the annual Dubai World Cup will take place at the emirate’s Meydan racecourse.
