The Saudi Cup 2026 - Dress Guide (EN)

RACEDAY STYLE GUIDE

WELCOME TO THE SAUDI CUP 2026

We are pleased to welcome you to the 7th edition of the Saudi Cup, the world’s most valuable horse race, with a total purse of $20 million and a $10 million first-place prize.

Traditionally, attendees dress up and look their best at horse racing events worldwide, and we are embracing this tradition for the Saudi Cup 2026.

We encourage our guests to wear formal attire and celebrate their culture by dressing in styles inspired by heritage.

GENTLEMEN ARE KINDLY REMINDED THAT FORMAL ATTIRE IS REQUIRED, AS DEFINED BELOW:

ENCOURAGED

• Daglah or sayah, with agal and ghutra or shemagh.

• Thobe & bisht, with agal and ghutra or shemagh.

• Formal national dress of your country.

• Formal dress uniform of any serving military personnel.

• Suits, including jacket and tie (tie required in the Grandstand and Al Thuraya).

NOT PERMITTED

• Thobe on its own (without headpiece)

• Casual attire, whether Saudi or non Saudi.

• Jeans, T-shirts, shorts.

• Promotional clothing.

• Abaya and thobe with designs inspired by the traditional fashions of Saudi Arabia. A modest approach to length and fabric should be taken, in line with Saudi traditions.

• Formal national dress of your country.

• Formal dress uniform of any serving military personnel.

• Smart suit with jacket.

LADIES ARE KINDLY REMINDED THAT FORMAL ATTIRE IS REQUIRED, AS DEFINED BELOW: NOT PERMITTED

• Casual attire, whether Saudi or non Saudi.

• Dresses and skirts must be of modest length, defined as falling just below the knee or longer.

• Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted. Dresses and tops with sheer straps and sleeves are also not permitted.

• Jeans, T-shirts, shorts. Short Skirts.

• Promotional clothing ENCOURAGED

ALL STABLE STAFF AND HANDLERS SHOULD BE NEATLY DRESSED ON RACEDAY. EXPLAINED AS FOLLOWS ENCOURAGED

• Formal or Smart attire.

• Suits including jacket and tie or vest and tie.

• Saudi Cup gillet along with a smart outfit.

NOT PERMITTED

• T-shirts, shorts, and short skirts.

• Promotional clothing.

• Open toe shoes.

• Strapless, off the shoulder, halter neck and spaghetti straps are not permitted.

GENERAL TIPS

Weather Consideration: Dress appropriately for the climate, especially since, some of the races will be held during the evening.

Comfort: Ensure your outfit always freedom of movement, and is not distracting the horse.

Embrace Tradition: The Saudi Cup steeped in tradition and style, so maintain an elegant appearance.

INSPIRATION

FABRICS

Initiate your outfit inspiration by thinking of fabrics and colors.

HEADWEAR

A stylish hat or fascinator is an option that may complement your outfit for an added touch of sophistication.

FOOTWEAR

Select comfortable yet flattering shoes. High heels are popular, but ensure they are suitable for walking around the Racecourse.

ACCESSORIES

Align your accessories with the overall look.

Authentic pieces are the perfect match for elegance.

OUTERWEAR

Depending on the weather, consider a light jacket or a scarf for added warmth.

SUIT

A suit’s charm is in the details of its tailoring. Light colors are ideal for warmer weather, while darker suits have been embraced due to the fact that some of the Saudi Cup Races are held during the evening under the racecourse lights.

TIES AND BROOCHES

Pair your suit a stylish tie; a bow tie can add a fashionable twist.

You may also add a touch with a brooch or a boutonniere (a single flower or small floral arrangement worn on the lapel of a suit)

FOOTWEAR

formal and smart shoes are a must.

Make sure they are polished and comfortable for walking.

HEADWEAR

Consider adding a stylish headpiece to enhance your look.

Trainers over the years have colored the Saudi Cup races with their distinct fedoras and panama hats, or even cowboy hats.

OUTERWEAR

An overcoat is suitable for cooler temperatures.

WOVEN WITH HERITAGE WORN WITH PRIDE