News

Abu Dhabi, UAE – September 3, 2025: The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club has announced the organization of the Al Alya Traditional Dhow Sailing Race for the “Banush” category, scheduled to take place on September 12, 2025. The race is part of the club’s annual season activities and the traditional racing series, and is considered one of the key rounds for this class of competition.

The race will cover a distance of 5 nautical miles, with the starting point to be determined based on wind direction and weather conditions. The organizing committee has already begun preparations, including setting the registration opening date, confirming participation through the club’s official website, and sending the race regulations and guidelines to participants. Technical and logistical support will also be provided for all competing dhows.

A total prize fund of AED 414,000 has been allocated for the top finishers, with prizes awarded from first to thirtieth place.

The traditional Banush sailing races attract a large number of dhows, captained by experienced nawakhidha and young sailors eager to test their skills in navigating small, agile boats that require high expertise to battle the waves. Over 50 banush boats are expected to participate in the Al Alya race.

The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club places great importance on designing and executing a comprehensive program of traditional and heritage-based races, in an effort to preserve the UAE’s rich maritime heritage — an integral part of the nation's identity and history. These races carry a cultural and heritage message, aimed at passing down the values and traditions of Emirati seafaring life to future generations. Through events like the Banush races, the club strives to create a platform that reinforces national identity and safeguards the UAE’s time-honored maritime traditions.