Travellers arriving at Dubai International Airport are being greeted with a unique souvenir, a special stamp on their passports celebrating the Dubai World Cup 2026.

The initiative, launched by the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), marks the 30th edition (Pearl Jubilee) of one of the world’s most prestigious horse racing events.

A grand sporting celebration

The iconic Dubai World Cup will take place on Saturday, March 28 at Meydan Racecourse, drawing global attention from racing fans and elite stables.

This year’s event promises high-stakes action:

• 100 horses from top international stables
• Nine races across the evening
• Total prize pool of $30.5 million

Spotlight on the main race

The highlight of the night is the $12 million Dubai World Cup race, sponsored by Emirates Airline.

Run over 2,000 metres on dirt, the Group 1 race will feature some of the world’s top thoroughbreds, including:

• “Hit Show” – last year’s winner
• “Forever Young” – UAE Derby and Saudi Cup champion
• “Imperial Emperor”
• “Meidan” – Super Saturday winner

A memorable arrival experience

The commemorative passport stamp adds a celebratory touch for visitors landing in Dubai, tying their arrival to one of the city’s biggest sporting spectacles.

With excitement building ahead of race day, Dubai is once again showcasing its ability to blend world-class sport with unique visitor experiences.

Private schools and early learning centres in Dubai will continue with remote learning until April 3, authorities have confirmed, as precautionary measures remain in place.

The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the extension on Friday, citing ongoing monitoring of conditions across the emirate.

Weekly review in place

The Ministry of Education UAE had earlier confirmed that distance learning for nurseries, public, and private schools will continue until April 3, with the situation under weekly review.

Authorities stressed that updates will be shared promptly as conditions evolve.

Return to classrooms under review

KHDA also noted that a flexible mechanism will be introduced, allowing private schools to request a return to in-person learning when appropriate.

These decisions will depend on:

• Each school’s operational readiness
• Student safety and wellbeing
• Overall conditions across the education sector

If your food or grocery delivery is taking longer than usual, the reason lies in the severe weather currently sweeping across the city.

With heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms hitting Dubai, Dubai Police has advised delivery riders to temporarily halt services during unsafe conditions, putting safety ahead of speed.

Safety first, deliveries later

Authorities have urged riders to avoid travelling during intense rainfall, especially in:

• Flooded streets
• Low-visibility conditions
• Areas prone to water accumulation

This means many delivery services may be paused or significantly delayed, particularly during peak rainfall hours.

Why delays are necessary

Officials warn that riding in such conditions can be dangerous. Risks include:

• Slippery roads and skidding
• Poor visibility due to heavy rain
• Waterlogged streets that can stall bikes

To reduce accidents, riders are being encouraged to wait until conditions improve before resuming deliveries.

Even taxis are running late

Taxi drivers have also been told to drive cautiously and avoid flooded areas, which could slow overall traffic movement across the city, adding to delays.

What you should expect

• Longer wait times for food and grocery orders
• Temporary service interruptions in some areas
• Limited rider availability during storms

What you can do

• Plan ahead and order earlier if possible
• Expect delays and track orders in real time
• Avoid placing urgent orders during peak storms