The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club has officially opened registration for the upcoming sailing dhow races featuring 43-foot vessels and the Barakah traditional boats race. This event is sponsored by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the representative of the ruler in the Al Dhafra region, as part of the fifth edition of the Al Silah Maritime Festival, which will run from November 7 to 16. Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, along with several partners, this festival promises to be an exceptional celebration of the emirate’s rich maritime heritage.
Event Details and Schedule
The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club announced that the 43-foot sailing dhow races will take place on either November 8 or 9. The exact date will be confirmed after assessing weather conditions. Meanwhile, the Barakah traditional boats race is set for November 15 or 16, also awaiting final confirmation on the schedule.
Heritage and Community Engagement
These events are among the most prominent traditional festivals in the UAE, seamlessly blending maritime racing with cultural and community activities. This initiative reflects the authenticity of the UAE’s maritime legacy, celebrating the history of ancestors along the shores of Al Dhafra. The club encourages boat owners and skippers to register through the official channels to ensure their participation.
A Celebration of Tradition
Khalifa Al Rumaithi, the Director of Traditional Races at the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, emphasized that the festival is an annual highlight for sea enthusiasts, showcasing the values of heritage and national identity. He reaffirmed the club’s commitment to organizing traditional races that strengthen the connection between new generations and their ancestors’ heritage, establishing Al Silah as a distinguished maritime destination on the national events calendar.