Are you a horse racing enthusiast or simply someone looking for a weekend filled with sport, culture and luxury? The forthcoming Saudi Cup 2026 is an experience you won’t want to miss! Taking place on 13 and 14 February 2026 in Riyadh, the Saudi Cup is the richest horse race in the world. This iconic two-day event brings together top-class horses, celebrated jockeys and racing fans from across the globe for exhilarating on-track action. With high-stakes international racing, premium hospitality and vibrant cultural experiences, it stands as one of the most exciting sporting events on the international calendar. Read on to discover what makes it an unmissable winter spectacle!
Discover the History and Significance of Saudi Cup
Launched in 2020, the Saudi Cup has rapidly become one of the most prestigious events in international horse racing. Organized each year by the Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia, the event serves as the crowning feature of an extended Riyadh Racing Season that runs for several months, concluding in February with the Saudi Cup weekend. Since its first running, it has consistently offered unprecedented prize money and drawn elite competitors from every corner of the globe. Moreover, the event has played a key role in positioning the Kingdom as a major hub for elite international sporting events.
Key details about Saudi Cup 2026
- Date: 13 February - 14 February 2025
- Venue: King Abdulaziz Equestrian Field (King Abdulaziz Racecourse), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Event Timings: 2 PM to 2 AM, Daily
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What to Expect at Saudi Cup 2026
The Saudi Cup is a festival of luxury, culture and sport in Saudi Arabia. Here’s what to look out for during the 2026 edition:
- Saudi Cup Night
At the heart of the event is the Saudi Cup Night, the richest horse event on the planet, with a prize value worth $20 million. Horses travel from around the world for a shot at glory and staggering rewards. Attendees can also enjoy turf sprints, derbies and the Howden Neom Turf Cup, offering fast-paced, competitive action.
- Howden Neom Turf Cup
The Howden Neom Turf Cup is one of the standout races of the Saudi Cup weekend, showcasing elite international turf talent. Held at King Abdulaziz Racetrack, this prestigious Group 1 race attracts top-class horses from around the world. With a competitive field and significant prize of USD 3 million, the race adds global prestige to the Saudi Cup 2026. The Howden Neom Turf Cup also highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to high-quality turf racing on the international stage.
- Iconic Venue (King Abdulaziz Racetrack)
The Saudi Cup is held at King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh, which is more than just a sporting facility. The venue provides modern viewing areas, luxury lounges and VIP hospitality suites. Exclusive packages include gourmet dining and first-class amenities.
- Cultural Experiences
Beyond the thrilling race, the Saudi Cup celebrates the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through captivating art exhibitions, traditional music and live performances. Additionally, there are several interactive cultural displays and demonstrations, offering a deeper insight into Saudi traditions.
- Luxury Hospitality and Entertainment
Concerts, gala receptions and exclusive events transform the Saudi Cup into a global lifestyle festival. During Saudi Cup 2026, attendees can enjoy fine dining and warm hospitality combined with premium entertainment for a sophisticated experience beyond the thrilling on-track action.
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Saudi Cup 2026 Tickets
General Admission Friday (Opening Night)/ Saturday (Saudi Cup Night)
- Adults (Up to 5 tickets) - SAR 199
- Group of Adults (6+ tickets) - SAR 175
- Child (under 12 years) - SAR 99
General Weekend Tickets (13 & 14 February)
- Adults (1-5 tickets) - SAR 260
- Group (6+ tickets) - SAR 225
- Child (under 12 years) - SAR 130
*Please note that current prices are valid until 22 January 2026 and will be revised thereafter.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
- Apply for a Saudi tourist visa or event‑specific visa well in advance via the Sharek e‑platform
- Book flights early, as mid‑February is peak season for international visitors
- Purchase Saudi Cup weekend tickets early to secure preferred seating and hospitality packages
- Arrive early on race day to enjoy pre‑race events, festivities and views
- Choose hotels near King Abdulaziz Racetrack or in central Riyadh for easy access
- Use ride‑hailing apps or hotel shuttles to navigate the city efficiently
- Purchase a local SIM card for data or use roaming plans to stay connected during your visit
- Always carry some cash in local currency (Saudi Riyal)
The Saudi Cup is not just a sporting event but a global extravaganza that combines competition, culture, and entertainment on a grand scale. From world-class racing to cultural showcases and luxury experiences, this two-day event promises an unforgettable winter weekend for attendees from around the world. Planning to attend the Saudi Cup 2026? Book one of our Saudi Arabia tour packages, offering everything you need for a seamless and enriching experience. Don’t forget to explore the Saudi capital before or after the event to truly discover the magic of the season!
FAQ’s - Saudi Cup 2026
The Saudi Cup 2026 will take place in mid-February, with the main race scheduled on February 14 at King Abdulaziz Racetrack in Riyadh.
The Saudi Cup 2026 is hosted at King Abdulaziz Racetrack, a premier horse racing venue in Riyadh, known for its world-class facilities and exciting racing atmosphere.
The Jockey Club of Saudi Arabia is responsible for organizing, managing, and promoting the Saudi Cup, ensuring it meets global standards in horse racing and hospitality.
The main race of the Saudi Cup 2026 offers a prize worth USD 20 million, making it the richest horse race in the world, attracting elite international competitors.
Yes, the Saudi Cup welcomes horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world in the competition, bringing global prestige and thrilling audiences with top-level international racing talent.
Yes, all international visitors must obtain a valid Saudi tourist or event visa to attend the Saudi Cup in Riyadh. You can get it online or via authorized Saudi visa channels.
Apart from the main race, the Saudi Cup 2026 features turf sprints, derbies, and the Howden Neom Turf Cup, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s expanding equestrian calendar.
Yes, attendees enjoy concerts, cultural showcases, fine dining, fashion events, and luxury hospitality, creating a full lifestyle experience beyond the horse racing itself.
