Nakheel to set the races alight at the Dubai World Cup 2005

This will be the second time that Nakheel has sponsored the fourth Race, The Dubai Sheema Classic which is run over 2400 metres, with a prize purse ringing in at a massive two million US dollars. Last year saw the race won by Gary Stevens on Polish Summer, in just over two and a half minutes.

'The Dubai World Cup is a momentous event in Dubai's annual sporting calendar and we are proud to be playing a key part in it for the second time', said Sultan Amed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman for Nakheel. 'Horse racing is part of Dubai's heritage and we are now entering a new era of international horse racing, were the world eagerly awaits the new developments and progress made by Dubai. The international community has welcomed the World Cup and Nakheel's unique projects, providing us with unprecedented support and in turn, we at Nakheel are unwavering in the sponsorship of community events and are keen to nurture our heritage of achieving the impossible wherever possible'.

Similar to the Dubai World Cup, Nakheel's Dubai development portfolio, specifically the recently launched The Palm, Deira are now being recognised across all corners of the globe. The magnificent offshore island development is yet another extraordinary Dubai vision coming to life.

'We are certain that this year will again see our hospitality tent filled with potential clients, who will all be offered prime viewing at the races. This year sees another fantastic line-up of breeders, runners and top equestrian stars who all bring an international flare to the city, and create a tantalising aura to the most exhilarating and prestigious event in the sporting calendar this year,' he said.

Located just off the coast of the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, the three palm tree shaped islands - The Palm, Jumeirah, The Palm, Jebel Ali and The Palm, Deira - are expected to contribute to the city's position as a premier global tourist destination. The project will increase Dubai's shoreline by over 150km and create a large number of residential, leisure and entertainment opportunities, all within a unique and inspiring setting.

The Dubai Sheema Classic sponsored by Nakheel is a grade one race open to 4-year old horses and will be run over 2400 metres on turf. The Dubai World Cup is the world's richest horse race.