Durban July set to gallop in over R700 million for City's economy, says mayor

IOL News

4 days ago

It's all systems go as the City prepares to host Africa's largest horseracing event, the Hollywoodbets Durban July taking place on 5 July at the Greyville Racecourse.
Image: Supplied
As South Africa gears up for the much-anticipated Durban July 2025 horse racing event on Saturday, eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba has revealed that the city is set to reap major economic benefits, including a boost of over R700 million to Durban's GDP and the creation of more than 4,000 jobs.
Themed 'Marvels of Mzansi', the prestigious horse racing event and fashion extravaganza is expected to attract approximately 50, 000 visitors to Durban with a hotel occupancy of 80%. This year's theme encourages the celebration of cultural heritage, diversity, and landscapes.
Speaking to the media at the grand media launch at Westown Mall in eShongweni on Wednesday, Xaba described the annual race as a cornerstone of the city's events calendar and a significant contributor to its economy.
"It will bring into the city over R278 million direct spend and over R700 million investment into our GDP. I am excited because through that, we also create jobs. Over 4,000 people will get jobs while launching this event in this place," Xaba said.
The anticipated event is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the city.
The launch was held at Westown Mall, which Xaba highlighted as part of a new R15 billion development in eShongweni.
So far according to Xaba, R1.5 billion has been invested in the project, with the municipality contributing R600 million to bulk infrastructure to support the area's growth.
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'This place was not here last year. It was opened this year. When this development is fully rolled out, it will be a R15 billion development. It would not have been possible without the city investing over R600 million to provide bulk infrastructure.'
Xaba also pointed to a separate R25 billion development north of Durban, which he said would include world-class facilities such as hotels, hospitals, commercial centres, and 12,000 residential units.
Speaking to the media at the grand media launch at Westown Mall in eShongweni on Wednesday, Xaba described the annual race as a cornerstone of the city's events calendar and a significant contributor to its economy
Image: Mthobisi Nozulela/IOL
'Just about three weeks ago, we launched another development... a R25 billion development north of Durban on the eastern side of M4,' Xaba said.
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