The organising committee of the Delma Historic Dhow Race has officially announced that the ninth edition of the event will commence next Wednesday. This decision follows a meeting attended by committee members, including Maed Atiq Al Mehairi, Saeed Khalifa Al Mehairi, and Khalifa Al Rumeithi, alongside Meryam Al Shehi, a representative from the National Centre of Meteorology. During the meeting, they reviewed the latest weather and sea forecasts to ensure safe conditions for participants and optimal circumstances for the race’s launch.
Commitment to Safety and Readiness
The decision to set the date was made after careful consideration of the current weather and maritime conditions, in close coordination with the National Centre of Meteorology. The committee is committed to making safety a top priority and adhering to the highest maritime security standards.
Preparing for the Race
Participants, including all skippers, are urged to head to Delma Island to begin their necessary preparations and technical arrangements for the competition on Wednesday. It is crucial for all involved to follow the instructions and guidelines issued by the organising committee and to work with relevant teams to finalise regulatory and technical preparations. This cooperation is aimed at ensuring a successful and safe start to this significant maritime event.
Logistical and Organisational Support
The committee has emphasised its dedication to providing all required logistical and organisational support to ensure the race’s success. They are working closely with the concerned entities, reiterating that the safety of skippers and sailors is a top priority as they continue to monitor weather and sea conditions leading up to the event.
Significance of the Delma Historic Race
The ninth Delma Historic Dhow Race will be part of the ninth edition of the Delma Historic Race Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the representative of the ruler in the Al Dhafra region, from October 30 to November 15, 2026. The event is organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club.
Considered one of the most prominent traditional maritime races in the region, the Delma Historic Dhow Race spans approximately 68 nautical miles (about 125 kilometres). It starts from Delma Island, passing several natural and historical islands, and concludes at the shores of the city of Al Mughirah, with total prize money reaching 30 million dirhams.
This race represents the esteemed standing of traditional maritime sports in the UAE, highlighting their role in preserving the rich maritime heritage and strengthening the connection of younger generations with their ancestral history. It is a demonstration of the significance of these sports in both the sporting and cultural landscapes.