New Qiddiya Horse Racing Venue to Host the Saudi Cup

A new horse racing venue is set to be developed in Qiddiya City, where it will host the Saudi Cup, currently recognised as the world’s richest horse race.

The project, announced by Qiddiya Investment Company, is planned as a national destination for sport, culture and entertainment. It will introduce a dedicated equestrian hub within Qiddiya’s wider mixed-use development.

According to the company, the venue is being designed as a flexible racing facility capable of accommodating a range of international race formats. Plans include the region’s first straight-mile turf course, alongside a 2,200-metre main turf track and a 2,400-metre inner dirt track, bringing multiple top-tier racing surfaces together on one site.

A 21,000-seat grandstand will anchor the development, with the ability to expand capacity to 70,000 during major race days. A 110-metre parade ring will position horses and riders at the centre of the spectator experience. The project also includes a world-class equine hospital providing veterinary services such as diagnostics, surgery, rehabilitation and emergency care, with equine welfare described as a core priority.

A memorandum of understanding between Qiddiya Investment Company and the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia is expected to be signed during the Asian Racing Conference, aimed at strengthening collaboration and supporting the long-term development of horse racing in the Kingdom.