annual events 53
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stanDarD ChartereD Dubai marathon When: January First held in 2000, this 42.2km race attracts runners from across the globe, including some of the world’s best male and female long-distance athletes. Whether you walk, run or just cheer from the sidelines, it’s an amazing experience. dubaimarathon.org
Dubai Duty Free tennis ChamPionshiPs When: February The world’s biggest tennis stars descend on Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Garhoud for a fortnight of top-flight tennis. Expect a fantastic atmosphere, with large crowds gathered to see the best players battling it out on centre court. dubaidutyfreetennis championships.com Dubai WorlD CuP When: March Taking place on the final weekend in March each year, the Dubai World Cup is the biggest sporting and social event in Dubai. Thousands of racegoers congregate in their finery at Meydan Racecourse to witness the world’s richest horse race. dubaiworldcup.com DP WorlD tour ChamPionshiP When: November Around 65,000 fans flock to Jumeirah Golf Estates to watch
the top players on the European PGA tour battle it out in the finale of the season-long Race to Dubai competition. Away from the fairways, there’s live music and hospitality tents. dpwtc.europeantour.com emirates airline Dubai rugby sevens When: December Join 100,000 fans (most in fancy dress) across three fun-filled days to cheer on the world’s best rugby sevens players. dubairugby7s.com
art & Design
Quoz arts Fest When: January The galleries of Alserkal Avenue, Dubai’s vibrant arts quarter, throw open their doors for this free festival. Culture vultures can look forward to exhibitions and street art, workshops and gallery tours, plus live music performances, food trucks and pop-ups. alserkalavenue.ae gPP Photo Week When: February The region’s biggest photography fest brings together some of the globe’s leading photographers with professional and amateur snappers looking to develop their skills. Organised by Gulf Photo Plus, there’s a packed programme of exhibitions, workshops and portfolio reviews. gulfphotoplus.com