[1] The Louis Vuitton Trophy format uses existing International America's Cup Class yachts loaned to the regatta by various America's Cup racing syndicates, keeping costs relatively low for the competing teams.

Because of the long delays from the legal action, and the fact that the 2010 America's Cup became a Deed of Gift match without a defender or challenger selection series, the Louis Vuitton Trophy series was established as a competition for other America's Cup racing syndicates.

The winner of the round robins will pick there semi final opponent from the top four teams.

[3] The event will mark the start of the Sea Dubai Watersports Festival under the patronage of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

This festival also includes the Dubai Shamaal World Surf Ski Championship, the Oakley Riot World Wakeboard Tournament, the UAE National Day Watersports Parade, the Mina Mile Swimming Competition, an Open Water Swim and Jet Ski Competition, the Traditional 43 ft Dhow Sailing Championship and finishes on 11 December with the final round of the Powerboat World Championships.