News

Abu Dhabi, UAE – 15 October 2025 : The Abu Dhabi Maritime Sports Academy, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA), has announced the launch of the “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” (Young Captain) program, a unique initiative designed to help children connect with the sea while developing their physical, social, and cognitive skills in a safe and interactive environment.

Running from 21 October to 30 December 2025, the “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” program is open to children aged 6 to 8 years. It offers them a series of marine and educational activities that combine learning and play while introducing them to the UAE’s rich maritime heritage and the importance of preserving it.

The program includes hands-on activities such as sailing, rowing, balance board exercises, and traditional dhow sailing experiences, as well as a Family Marine Day, which will be held in Al Mirfa City in Al Dhafra, featuring family-friendly boat races and interactive entertainment.

Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Sports Academy, said: “The “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” program embodies the Academy’s vision of investing in early childhood as a fundamental stage in shaping the awareness of new generations and instilling in them the values of the sea from a young age. Through this initiative, we aim to build a confident generation connected to its heritage and capable of representing the nation in various maritime sports in the future.”

He added: “We are proud of this partnership with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority. It reflects genuine integration between sports and community development. Together, we strive to offer a comprehensive educational and heritage-based experience that aligns with the wise leadership’s vision of nurturing a creative and empowered generation.”

Her Excellency Dr. Hessa Al Kaabi, Executive Director of Special Projects and Partnerships at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, said: “The launch of the “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” program, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Maritime Sports Academy, reflects our commitment to expanding experiential learning and connecting children with their national heritage in a safe and stimulating environment. Interactive experiences like these nurture children’s physical, social, and cognitive skills, while fostering curiosity and a strong sense of belonging to their Emirati roots. At ECA, we believe that every meaningful learning experience is a step toward building a creative generation equipped for the future.”

“Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” program is one of the Academy’s leading educational initiatives aimed at promoting learning through experience, in line with its vision to develop young Emirati talents and expand the base of people practicing maritime sports across the UAE.

The launch of the “Al Nokhatha Al Sagheer” program was announced as part of Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week 2025, which is organized by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) from 17 to 23 November under the theme “Together We Can Make Abu Dhabi a Family-Friendly Emirate.” The week is supported by ADNOC as the Energy Partner, the National Academy for Childhood Development (NACD) as the Visionary Partner, and PureHealth as the Health Partner.