In a statement released heralding the 2010 Dubai World Cup, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that the premier racing event is not only a special occasion for the UAE, but for equestrian sports in general following the completion of Meydan project. His remarks were published in the Dubai World Cup official programme, the translation of which follows below:

Passion for horses and the sport of horse racing is embedded in UAE culture and our alliance with these noble animals spans from the very beginning of our history. Fast forward to the present day where the country is now an expanding metropolis thanks to the considerable investments in commercial and residential infrastructure, as well as leisure and tourism.

Today I proudly unveil what I hope will be seen as the world's premier racecourse here in the UAE and welcome race goers and competitors from all over the world for what is by far the most valuable race programme ever staged in the history of horse racing.

Meydan is the culmination of what has been a very exciting and fulfilling journey; seeing it rise from the ground to become an iconic symbol for what we hope befits the noble sport of horse racing. I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in making this vision a reality in such a short span of time.

I hope that your experience here tonight will be unforgettable and prompts your return to Meydan for years to come. Meydan stands as a testament to both the sporting and human spirit for what we can achieve, for what we dare to dream.

I would like to express my profound gratitude to all the horse owners and trainers who have come to compete and celebrate with us on this historic occasion, and I wish you all a night filled with joy and excitement.