Embracing Dubai: A Trainer's Perspective On Racing, Culture, And the Future

Bhupat Seemar Bhupat has called UAE his home for over two decades. Seemar initially moved to Dubai to work for Zabeel Stables. At the time his decision was purely driven by his passion for racing, but over the years, he has discovered new reasons to call it home. 

Where are you from? 

India. 

What initially drew you to Dubai as a base for your horse racing career?

It was purely racing to start with and everything else came with it. It was an honor and a privilege to get the opportunity to work in the country of the world’s biggest racehorse owner and their family. I met the late HH Sheikh Rashid in the Keeneland Sales a few times and Satish was already working in Dubai and he offered me a job here. 

After a few years in Dubai, what has kept you rooted here? Has the initial appeal persisted, or have you discovered new reasons to call it home?

I have been here for 21 years. Dubai racing, in my opinion, is one of the best in the world and now it is home for me. My daughter was born here, and I have spent the best part of my life working in racing in Dubai. 

Dubai's racing scene is known for its international flair. How has this diversity enriched your training experience and the horses you handle?

Dubai racing has elevated to be the best on the planet and some of the biggest owners and trainers send a selection of their top equine athletes to race in Dubai because Dubai offers some of the best racing, prize money and facilities. Meydan is one of the most majestic racetracks to race at. 

Beyond the racetrack, what aspects of Dubai life have resonated with you and made you feel settled? Does the culture, community, or anything else contribute to your sense of belonging?

Dubai is one of the best places to live in. Security, lifestyle, friends and family are all reasons why I have settled here besides racing.

Compared to other racing hubs, what unique advantages or challenges does Dubai present for a well-traveled trainer like yourself? How have you adapted your approach to thrive in this environment?

Dubai racing is very unique, but it is also a great mix of European and American racing. In the racing world, Dubai geographically, is in the center. It is located in a place where the Japanese, Americans, and European horses can travel with ease to compete. 

Dubai is constantly evolving. How has the city's growth and development impacted the racing industry and your work as a trainer? Do you see these changes as positive or present any concerns?

Dubai has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world which in turn has a tremendous positive impact on racing. The Dubai economy has driven a large amount of expats and the local population to get involved in racing. 

The UAE prioritises horse welfare. How has this focus influenced your training methods and philosophy? Do you feel it has elevated the overall standard of horse care in Dubai?

In my opinion, horses have given everything to me in my life. People who work with horses understand the respect and high level of welfare given back to the horse. Horse care in Dubai is some of the best in the world anyway and the high level of welfare is standard practice here. 

Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of horse racing in Dubai? Are there any upcoming events or initiatives you're particularly looking forward to?

Dubai is at the forefront of the horse racing industry. It is great to see that the authorities have amended the Dubai Racing Carnival and extended it which I think is a very positive move forward. The Dubai World Cup is the pinnacle of racing here which is always exciting to aim horses for that day. 

How do you strike a balance between your demanding training schedule and enjoying the city's offerings? Do you have any favourite pastimes or hidden gems you recommend?

You must be disciplined while training racehorses with the early morning starts so that keep the socializing in check. But I do understand that as a racehorse trainer, you have to entertain clients, so you have to strike a good balance. Kayaking in Hatta I would recommend as a hidden gem. 

As a successful trainer who's embraced Dubai as your home, what advice would you give to aspiring trainers considering a similar move? What are the key things they should be prepared for and excited about?

The quality of racing and prize money is of a very high standard in Dubai, so it is very appealing for aspiring trainers moving to Dubai. Because of the large expat community in Dubai, you have a diverse clientele that wants to get involved in horseracing.