Few sporting events ooze luxury like a horse race. While Royal Ascot is the pinnacle of British racing, many courses outside the United Kingdom also exude character and opulence. From desert states to the land down under, you will find some of the highest-end hospitality at them. Read on as we discuss the world’s most luxurious racecourses.

Meydan Racecourse, Dubai, UAE

Meydan is a real spectacle to behold. Its plush grandstand is over half a mile long and can hold over 60,000 spectators. However, it is not only a racecourse. On its grounds are a five-star hotel, an art gallery, a golf course, and a museum dedicated to horse racing itself. Being in Meydan City, it is also perfectly situated to take you into the rest of this modern metropolis, and if you are visiting, the course is well worth your time.

Crucially, Meydan is the home of the Dubai World Cup. This thoroughbred race has taken place since 1996 and is the peak of racing in the Arabic states. It was put together by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ruler of Dubai has a very keen interest in horses, owning the Godolphin Racing and Darley Stud. Held on the last Sunday of March, the race is the crowning glory of the Dubai World Cup Night.

In today’s racing world, you luckily don’t need to be a sheikh to own a share in great horses. Online horse racing syndicates will let you choose shares in horses ranging from £50 to £1000. You can choose the right horse and the number of shares you want to buy, then follow its progress online. As a buyer, you even get to benefit from any earnings it makes.

Tokyo Racecourse

Situated in Fuchu, Japan, stands Tokyo Racecourse. In Japanese horse racing, it is considered the course of all courses. Originally built in 1933, it had a major renovation in 2007 after an arduous seven-year regeneration. It is home to several major races that are famous across the globe, the most spectacular being the Japan Cup.

The course itself is home to a large array of luxury options for entertainment, hospitality, and dining. There are eighty different dining selections, providing everything from quick bites to world-class food. Most people head to the centre court, which is a great meeting point and has integrated relaxation facilities. The course is connected to the train station by a small footbridge, dropping you into the heart of Tokyo in an instant.

Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne, Australia

Flemington Racecourse is the home of the Melbourne Cup, Australia’s biggest horse race. If you visit for this, remember to get your best outfit on. It is the day when people dress to impress, and you must be seen amongst the crowd. It is made up of three grandstands, which together can hold 120,000 people.

There are quite a few upmarket options at the course. The Terrace Restaurant provides the best views of the winning post. However, if you find yourself in the Hill Stand Corporate Suites, opt for the delicious grazing menu — a bite-sized selection of the best seasonal and local delicacies on offer.

While these courses are open most of the year, you will need to plan for main events. Big race tickets can go almost a year in advance, and suites can quickly get booked up. Book ahead and enjoy a great race day with the best hospitality on offer.