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Dubai's Fashion Friday: Racing, glam and after parties
Staged as part of the emirate’s horseracing season, it is held in the lead-up to the Dubai World Cup and brings together top-notch racing action as well as a vibrant social scene
- PUBLISHED: Mon 19 Jan 2026, 12:18 PM
- By:
- Nasreen Abdulla
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With world-class racing, high fashion and after-parties, Fashion Friday is turning out to be one of the most anticipated events in Dubai’s social calendar.
Staged as part of the emirate’s horseracing season, it is held in the lead-up to the Dubai World Cup and brings together top-notch racing action as well as a vibrant social scene.
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At the heart of the evening is an exceptional nine-race card featuring three Group 1 contests, placing Fashion Friday among the strongest race meetings staged anywhere in the world this season.
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The headline act is the Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge, which is expected to see defending champion Walk Of Stars return to the track. On turf, elite international runners line up for the Group 1 Jebel Hatta, a race memorably won last year by global star Romantic Warrior.
Speed specialists will take centre stage in the Group 2 Blue Point Sprint and the Group 3 Al Shindagha Sprint, while emerging Classic hopefuls will compete in the Group 3 UAE 2000 Guineas, offering a glimpse of racing’s next generation of stars.
Those interested in the action can buy their tickets via dubairacingclub.com. The rates start from Dh10 for general admission and Dh75 for the Paddock Garden.
Fashion
Fashion will remain firmly in the spotlight throughout the evening, with horse racing often synonymous with elegant outfits and stunning hats.
A curated millinery exhibition in Concourse 3 will showcase statement headpieces from leading designers, including Bee Smith, Victoria Charles, Kim Fletcher, Evelyn McDermott, Lisa Tan, Sahar Millinery and Sarah Cant.
Adding further prestige, acclaimed British milliner Victoria Grant will unveil pieces from her collection, Couture Millinery for the Wild at Heart.
Racegoers can also draw inspiration ahead of the landmark 30th Dubai World Cup on March 28 through a boutique pop-up from Ridley London, offering elegant ready-to-wear designs tailored for the emirate’s most glamorous social occasions.
Afterparty
Once the final race wraps up, the focus will shift from the track to the social scene. Celebrations continue in the Paddock Garden, where DJ Slim will host a late-night garden party from 10.45pm until late.
Open to all hospitality ticket holders, the open-air venue promises a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, complemented by a diverse food offering featuring pop-ups from Little Fox by Rowley’s, Salt, McGettigan’s and other international concepts.
As with all things in Dubai, there will be a wide array of eateries for food lovers to choose from.
Homegrown Dubai eatery The Maine will host an exclusive race-day takeover in Suite 401, offering a five-hour culinary experience priced at Dh1195, complete with signature dishes and panoramic trackside views.
Meanwhile, The Finish Line Brunch by Be More Than launches on Fashion Friday, with packages starting from Dh395 with children’s options available.
