Deaf Community Visitor Guide | Dubai Duty Free International Weekend With James Bay: Saturday 20th September

The Dubai Duty Free International Weekend with James Bay marks the Racecourse’s first-ever Deaf Aware music raceday. All seven races on the card will be accompanied by British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation, culminating in a live BSL-interpreted performance by James Bay.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a range of inclusive activations, courtesy of OLBG and Deaf Unity.

Exclusive Experiences

The Dubai Duty Free International Weekend with James Bay will be fully accessible for deaf racegoers, with BSL interpreters, dedicated spaces, and inclusive experiences throughout the day.
Take a look at the map and the full list of experiences you can expect on Saturday below.

Inclusive Zone

The Racecourse’s Paddock Bar is a dedicated space designed to make your raceday as enjoyable and accessible as possible.
The Paddock Bar will be open exclusively for the deaf community, offering a relaxed and friendly environment to meet others and enjoy the atmosphere.

Learn About Racing with Ex-Jockey Daryl Jacob

Join this deaf-inclusive experience for a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of horse racing, led by former jockey Daryl Jacob.
The tour includes an exclusive talk with Daryl, where he’ll share stories from his racing career and insights into the sport.
Those on the tour will enjoy a guided tour of the Parade Ring and Weighing Room, learning how a race is run, and discovering the roles of stewards and officials.
The experience also covers: how to bet, jockey clothing and equipment, horse breeds and training, and the differences between flat and jump racing.
To top it off, there will be a photo opportunity on the winners’ podium, making this an educational and memorable experience for racing fans of all levels.
Tours will begin at 12pm with a full itinerary below.
If you would like to join the tour please meet at The Paddock Bar at 11:55am.

Itinerary

12pm
Welcome talk with OLBG’s Daryl Jacob

12:15pm
Guided tour of the Paddock, Parade Ring & Weighing Room

12:30pm
Learn how a race is run, the role of stewards & officials, and betting explained

12:45pm
Meet & greet with a jockey and trainer, hosted by Daryl

1pm
Discover jockey gear, horse breeds & training, and race types (Flat vs. Jump)

3pm Onwards
Parade ring tours and Q&A with Daryl, including betting support

BSL Interpreter at James Bay Concert

A British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be projected on the screens throughout James Bay’s performance with lyrics and spoken moments interpreted in real time.

Race Commentary Interpreted – Grandstand

Visit the Interpreter Zone in front of the Dubai Duty Free Grandstand, here a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be signing the races live, so you won’t miss a moment of the action.

BSL Interpreter at East Entrance

To help make your arrival at the Racecourse as smooth and welcoming as possible, a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be stationed at the East Entrance.
Whether you need assistance with directions, ticketing, or general information, the interpreter will be there to support you and ensure you feel comfortable.

Wristbands for Extra Support

To help make your day even more enjoyable, optional wristbands will be available for members of the deaf community to collect from the Paddock Bar.
These wristbands will allow staff across the Racecourse to easily identify you and offer assistance and support whenever needed.

Pens & Paper Available at the Paddock Bar

To help make communication easier throughout your day, pens and paper will be available at the Paddock Bar and across the Racecourse for deaf and hard-of-hearing guests to use.

What to Expect

Alongside our inclusive activations and seven thrilling races, there’s plenty of extra entertainment to look forward to.
Our headliner James Bay will be taking to the Party In The Paddock stage live after racing at 5:45pm.
The stage is located within the Grandstand Enclosure, with standing space available in front of the stage.
Video and audio from the concert will be shown on screens around the Racecourse.
To see everything that’s planned, please follow the button below:

WHAT TO EXPECT

For full details on what to expect, including ticket information and timings, please follow the button below.

RACEDAY INFORMATION