The 8th Al Rayyan Race Meeting returns in style on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club (QREC), promising a captivating evening of high-class competition and equine brilliance. At the heart of this exciting card stands the Umm Bab Cup – Purebred Arabian Open Race (Class 2), the feature event of the day, offering a prize purse of Qr 120,000 over 1600 meters. As Purebred Arabian stars prepare to clash for supremacy, the Umm Bab Cup embodies the spirit, speed, and strength that define Qatar’s rich racing tradition.
But the evening’s excitement stretches far beyond the main event. A thrilling eight-race program showcases a blend of emerging contenders and seasoned champions, each adding its own layer of drama to this prestigious meeting. From maiden contests testing fresh potential to high-stakes handicaps where experience reigns supreme, every race promises its own spectacle under the Doha lights.
The action begins at 16:00 with the Purebred Arabian Maiden Plate (Class 6) over 1600 meters, carrying Qr 50,000 in prize money — the perfect opener for new talents seeking their breakthrough victory. Next up at 16:35, the Thoroughbred Maiden Plate (Class 6) unfolds over 1200 meters for Qr 55,000, setting the tone for a fast-paced early double.
At 17:10, the Local Thoroughbred Handicap 0–50 (Class 5) over 1200 meters brings competitive flair, offering Qr 50,000, before the stamina test begins at 17:45 with the Purebred Arabian Handicap 65–85 (Class 4), run across 2000 meters for Qr 60,000 — a true test of endurance and tactical mastery.
Momentum builds further at 18:20 with the Local Purebred Arabian Graduation Plate (Class 4) over 1400 meters, a key stepping stone event with Qr 65,000 in prize money. Then, at 18:45, the Purebred Arabian Handicap 75–95 (Class 3) brings together a strong mid-tier field over 1600 meters for Qr 70,000, offering an ideal lead-up to the high-profile contests that follow.
Before the feature race, the Thoroughbred Handicap 80–100 (Class 2) at 19:20 over 1600 meters for Qr 90,000 ensures a thrilling build-up, pitting top-rated Thoroughbreds in a strategic mile showdown.
Finally, all eyes turn to the Umm Bab Cup – Purebred Arabian Open Race (Class 2), scheduled for 19:55, headlining the night’s finale. With Qr 120,000 in prize money and the prestige of a major title on the line, this event brings together elite Arabian competitors in a test of speed, stamina, and heart over 1600 meters. The Umm Bab Cup promises to deliver a breathtaking finish to an already stellar evening, capturing the very essence of Arabian racing excellence at Al Rayyan.
From maiden breakthroughs to championship-caliber contests, the 8th Al Rayyan Race Meeting offers fans a night to remember — where every stride tells a story and every finish line brings the thrill of triumph.
Stay tuned to RaceBuzz for comprehensive coverage, race-day updates, and expert insights from QREC as Qatar’s racing season continues to shine bright with the Umm Bab Cup leading the charge.
