The concluding ceremony of the “Nawkhadha Abu Dhabi” 2026 programme took place yesterday, organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club. Running from 13th July to 20th August, the programme saw participation from nearly 300 sailors, including individuals from the determination category, across locations such as Abu Dhabi, Al Marfa, and Delma Island.
Showcase of Skills and Heritage
The final event, held at the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club beach, featured practical demonstrations by participants that highlighted the skills they had acquired during the programme. These showcased a range of activities, including modern sailing, traditional sailing, and swimming, alongside knowledge and skills related to the marine environment and the Emirati maritime heritage.
Acknowledging Exceptional Talent
Twenty-four exceptional sailors were honoured in both the traditional sailing and modern sailing categories, recognising their commitment and skills throughout the training period. The event also celebrated the contributions of participants from the determination category. The honours were presented by Captain Jumaa Hathboor Al Remeithi and Captain Mohammed Saber Al Mazrouei.
Commitment to National Heritage
Saeed Khalifa Al Mehairi, Director of Community Sports at the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, stated that “Nawkhadha Abu Dhabi” exemplifies the council’s dedication to launching quality initiatives that engage young people during the summer holidays while enhancing their connection to national identity and the UAE’s maritime heritage. This initiative aligns with the leadership’s vision of preserving and instilling national heritage in the younger generations.
Building a Future Generation of Sailors
The programme serves as a comprehensive platform for training and preparing a new generation of sailors by integrating practical training with cognitive development. Al Mehairi noted that this approach contributes to building a foundation of national competencies capable of continuing the legacy of traditional marine sports. The programme’s presence in Abu Dhabi, Al Marfa, and Delma Island reflects a commitment to expand reach and benefits across different areas of the emirate.
Distinguished Guests at the Ceremony
The closing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including H.E. Hamad Sayah Al Marar, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development – Abu Dhabi; H.E. Mohammed Said Al Qubaisi, General Director of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Sector at the Abu Dhabi Accountability Authority; and other esteemed guests such as Salem Mohammed Al Dhahri, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Global Market, and Aref Al Awani, Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
Other notable attendees included Hussein Al Khouri, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Chess and Mind Games Club, Majid Abdullah Al Mehairi, Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, and Abdulkhaleq Al Ameri, CEO of Sarh Group.