Dubai: The Dubai International Arabian Races, a highly-regarded world programme of events for Purebred Arabians, makes a welcome return to Newbury Racecourse on August 10.

The rich, eight-race programme is promoted by the Arabian Racing Organisation (ARO) under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance.

Widely regarded as the ‘Champions Day’ of Arabian racing, the card features three Group 1 races that attract runners from across Europe who will be competing for a share of the prize money totalling £158,000 (Dh981,183).

The card is headed by the £50,000 Group 1 Shadwell Stud Dubai International Stakes.

Joining Shaikh Hamdan’s hugely successful breeding operation in support of the Group 1 races is Jebel Ali Racecourse, Dubai’s popular ‘family’ racing venue.

NAIP, who sponsor the concluding National Academy of Indian Payroll Handicap Stakes, have extended their support of the event this year and will also present a cash prize of £200 to the groom responsible for the Best Turned Out horse in each race.

Mirza Al Sayegh, director of the Office of Hamdan, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Newbury once again to stage this prestigious event.

“It is a fantastic way to introduce people to the sport of racing and Arabian racing and we hope the entertainment and free admission will encourage families to attend.”

Julian Thick, CEO of Newbury Racecourse said: “Our sincere thanks go to Shaikh Hamdan for staging this important fixture at Newbury and we look forward to welcoming [Shaikh Hamdan], the sponsors, their guests and an enthusiastic crowd for one of our summer racing highlights.”

The meeting boasts free admission and a host of family attractions, free prize draws and giveaways throughout the day.

A Celebration of the Arabian horse in Art curated by the Society of Equestrian Artists will be on show throughout the day in Pavilions next to the Pre-Parade Ring.

Activities in the winner’s enclosure which will include a Best Children’s Hat competition for younger racegoers who can win a brand new iPad, a Best Dressed Lady Competition with prizes of exquisite jewellery from exclusive UAE designers and — brand new this year — a selfie competition offering an iPad to the winner.

In the day’s finale, one lucky racegoer will be presented with the keys to a brand new Suzuki Alto car worth approximately £8,500 in the free-to-enter Mega Draw.