Durban, South Africa – The highly anticipated 2025 Durban July horse racing event is expected to inject a whopping R690 million into the eThekwini Metro economy, with thousands of visitors, local businesses, and workers set to benefit from the spectacle at Greyville Racecourse on Saturday, 5 July.
This was confirmed by eThekwini Municipality spokesperson Gugu Sisilana, who said the city is fully prepared to host what is widely considered Africa’s premier horse racing and fashion event.
The city projects that the Durban July will attract at least 45,000 visitors this year, with over 4,400 temporary jobs to be created across key sectors including transport, hospitality, fashion, security, and food services.
“We are anticipating a direct spend of R278.6 million by attendees, vendors, and stakeholders,” said Sisilana. “The Durban July has proven to be a massive catalyst for local economic growth. Every year, small businesses, designers, hotels, and restaurants benefit immensely.”
The event’s total projected economic impact stands at R690 million, making it one of the biggest single-day boosts to the Durban economy annually.
The Durban July is not just about horses and betting. It’s a full-blown celebration of African fashion, lifestyle, and luxury. Designers, tailors, hairstylists, and makeup artists will all cash in as guests prepare to dazzle in line with this year’s fashion theme, which is yet to be announced.
Street vendors and caterers around the Greyville precinct are also set to experience a significant rise in business. Local food brands and franchises benefit from the influx of visitors, while Durban’s transport sector, including e-hailing services and minibus taxis, expect a jump in revenue.
“We are working with local SMMEs to make sure the value chain of the Durban July benefits everyone, from the small vendor selling food outside the venue to high-end fashion designers,” said Sisilana.
Hotels and guest houses in Durban’s beachfront and surrounding suburbs are reportedly nearly fully booked, as travellers from other provinces and abroad prepare to attend the event.
eThekwini Metro says it has ramped up security and public safety measures to ensure a smooth experience for both residents and visitors.
“We are deploying law enforcement and emergency personnel across the city,” said Sisilana. “This includes crowd control, traffic management, and crime prevention.”
In preparation for the event, the Greyville Racecourse precinct has undergone a facelift, with roads being patched, lighting upgraded, and public facilities improved. Municipal teams are also ensuring the area is clean, accessible, and ready to welcome thousands of stylish attendees.
The Durban July, first held in 1897, has grown into a continental brand, attracting celebrities, socialites, business leaders and high-net-worth individuals. It is often compared to iconic international events such as the Royal Ascot in the UK and Kentucky Derby in the US.
“This is not just a race — it’s a celebration of African excellence and Durban’s global appeal,” said a fashion designer who’s been dressing guests for the Durban July since 2010.
With strong planning, high visitor turnout, and hundreds of millions of rands expected to be injected into the economy, Durban July 2025 promises to be more than just a race day — it is shaping up to be a major driver of post-COVID economic recovery and a showcase of South Africa’s vibrant urban culture.
