Agoda goes the final furlong for the Dubai World Cup 2010

Agoda.com, one of Asia’s leading hotel booking websites and part of Nasdaq-listed Priceline.com, is offering a host of special deals for people heading to the world’s richest horse racing event, the Dubai World Cup 2010. The event starts on March 27 at Meydan Racecourse, part of the futuristic Meydan City entertainment district.

Michael Kenny, CEO of Agoda said: “The United Arab Emirates is one of the world’s most exciting destinations, and its amazing architecture, fantastic shopping, strong sense of culture, and unique geography make it a must-visit destination for any modern traveler.”

“The Dubai World Cup is one of the most prestigious events in the region and adds a further element of intrigue to the Emirates. Agoda is happy to pass on some great rates for Dubai hotels, so travelers of all types can experience the city’s tribute to the Sport of Kings.”

The Dubai World Cup has become a major focus for horse racing enthusiasts around the world ever since it was inaugurated in 1996 by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Held at Nad Al-Sheba Racecourse, the auspicious debut event featured 11 thoroughbreds and was won by the legendary US horse “Cigar.” Since then, champion thoroughbreds are flown in from countries such as the US, Australia, Great Britain, and Japan, to compete for the US$10 million purse.

For 14 years, the Dubai World Cup was held at Nad Al-Sheba Racecourse, but this year the event moves to the newly-completed US$2 billion Meydan Racecourse. Attendees to this year’s Cup can enjoy trackside views from the racecourse’s 60,000 capacity grandstand. The luxurious grandstand features an IMAX theater, six haute cuisine restaurants, and is home to the Dubai Racing Club. The state-of-the-art track features synthetic all-weather Tapeta turf. The Dubai International Racing Carnival was staged at Meydan Racecourse earlier this year, receiving accolades from trainers and jockeys alike.

To commemorate the Dubai World Cup’s move to Meydan Racecourse, an additional supporting race was added to the program, bringing the total purse to more than US$25 million. Eight races will be staged over the course of the event, including the US$5 million Dubai Duty Free and the US$5 million Dubai Sheema Classic – two of the richest turf races in the world.

Check out Agoda’s hot hotels rates for Dubai this March.

Shangri-la Hotel, Dubai – 5 Stars
http://www.agoda.com/middle_east/united_arab_emirates/dubai/shangri_la_hotel.html
Early-Bird Special: Book a Deluxe Room 21 days in advance from US$350 per night – 15 percent discount!

Grand Millennium Hotel – 5 Stars
http://www.agoda.com/middle_east/united_arab_emirates/dubai/grand_millennium_hotel.html
Pay 4 nights, Stay 1 night FREE when you book a Superior Room before June 30, 2010. Rates from US$190 per night.

Arabian Park Hotel – 3 Stars
http://www.agoda.com/middle_east/united_arab_emirates/dubai/arabian_park_hotel.html
Early-Bird Special: Pay 4 nights in a Standard Room for US$82 per night and enjoy 25 percent discount. Book 14 days in advance, promotion valid until May 31, 2010.

Habtoor Grand Resort and Spa – 5 Stars
http://www.agoda.com/middle_east/united_arab_emirates/dubai/habtoor_grand_resort_spa.html
Resort Room rates from US$269 per night. Book 3 days in advance, valid until December 31, 2010.

The Marco Polo Hotel – 4 Stars
http://www.agoda.com/middle_east/united_arab_emirates/dubai/the_marco_polo_hotel.html
Pay 4 nights, Stay 1 night FREE when you book a Deluxe Room. Rates from US$88, valid until April 30, 2010.