News

Al Dhafra, May 25, 2025 : Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the 8th edition of the Dalma Traditional Dhow Sailing Race (60-foot category) will kick off tomorrow, Monday morning, as part of the Dalma Heritage Festival. The race will feature the participation of 110 dhows from across the UAE, crewed by over 3,000 sailors.

The race is organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club. It will start from the historic Dalma Island, passing by several islands, and finish at the shoreline of Al Mirfa city in the Al Dhafra region, covering a distance of over 68 nautical miles (125 kilometers), in a route that mirrors ancient navigation paths and reflects the UAE’s rich maritime heritage.

The Dalma Race is considered the longest, most valuable, and most competitive traditional sailing race in the region, with total prize money amounting to AED 30 million. The winner of the first place will receive AED 1.3 million and a car, while the second-place winner will receive AED 1 million and a car, and the third-place winner will be awarded AED 800,000 and a car, in addition to monetary prizes for other top finishers.

The dhow "Hasheem 199," owned by His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and captained by Hassan Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi, will defend its title from the previous edition, which saw the participation of 122 dhows.

Registration witnessed strong turnout from dhow captains and owners. The organizing committee has completed all logistical and technical preparations, including the technical inspection of dhows and safety checks. Community support has also been allocated, with AED 2,000 granted to each participating dhow to cover supply expenses.

The race holds deep traditional and celebratory significance, embodying the values of the ancestors and their bond with the sea, with elite captains from various generations participating in a highly professional and safe organizational environment.

The Dalma Heritage Festival will continue until June 1, featuring 49 competitions and a wide range of cultural, educational, and recreational activities.