News

Abu Dhabi, UAE – October 11, 2025: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club organized yesterday the Ghanada 60ft Traditional Dhow Sailing Race, as part of its annual heritage and traditional racing program.

The dhow “Shaheen 57”, owned by Hamdan Saeed Jaber Al Harbi and captained by Khalifa Abed Thani Saif Al Marri, claimed first place after a fierce and closely contested race that was decided in the final stage.

Second place went to “Namran 211”, owned and captained by Abdullah Mohammed Jumaa Al Marzouqi, while “Ghazi 103”, owned by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, and captained by Ahmed Saeed Salem Al Rumaithi, finished in third place.

More than 90 dhows took part in the race, sailing a 30-nautical-mile course from the starting point to the finish line in front of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club headquarters on the Abu Dhabi Corniche. The event attracted a large crowd of spectators who followed the thrilling action from the shore.

The race began at a fast pace, with strong winds propelling the traditional boats smoothly across the water. Each captain carefully selected the optimal course and tactics, whether from the high, middle, or low paths, resulting in the leading dhows crossing the finish line in just one hour and 35 minutes.

The organizing committee allocated AED 4,238,000 in total prize money, distributed up to the 90th position, along with three cars awarded to the top three finishers. The rewards aim to encourage dhow owners, captains, and sailors to continue participating in these traditional events that celebrate the bravery of the forefathers who ventured the sea, and to preserve the authentic Emirati maritime heritage that forms an integral part of the UAE’s history and national identity.

The top three captains expressed their joy at reaching the podium, praising the strong competition and commending the excellent organization of the event.