The Dubai Sheema Classic is an annual Gr 1 flat horserace run on turf at Dubai's Nad Al Sheba Racecourse in the United Arab Emirates over 2400m (roughly 1 1/2 miles) for thoroughbreds four-years-old and up. It is run in late March each year as part of the Dubai World Cup Night, and offers a purse of $5 million.

As such, the Dubai Sheema Classic is one of the world's wealthiest horse races and attracts many or the top runners from all over the globe. When it was inaugurated in 1998, the race was called the Dubai Turf Classic. In 2002, however, it was renamed the Dubai Sheema Classic.

In 2002 the race was upgraded to its current Gr 1 status. The fastest time recorded in the Dubai Sheema Classic stands at 2:27.45, set in 2008 by Australian-bred thoroughbred Sun Classique, ridden by Kevin Shea and trained by Mike de Kock, both from South Africa.

In its 10 runnings, the Dubai Sheema Classic has yielded its fair share of worthy jockeys, trainers and owners. Jockeys Frankie Dettori and Kieren Fallon have each won the race twice - Dettori in 1998 (Stowaway) and in 2003 (Sulamani), and Fallon in 1999 (Fruits of Love) and in 2000 (Fantastic Light).

Saeed bin Suroor is the only trainer to have chalked up two victories in the race - in 1998 (Stowaway) and in 2003 (Sulamani). Owners Godolphin Racing and Shadai Racehorse Co. Ltd have also notched up two wins each. Godolphin Racing in 1998 and 2003, and Shadai in 2001 and 2006.

Dubai Sheema Classic - Past Winners

2004 Polish Summer
2005 Phoenix Reach
2006 Heart's Cry
2007 Vengeance of Rain
2008 Sun Classique

Dubai Sheema Classic - Betting

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