News

Abu Dhabi, April 17, 2025 – The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club has announced that the Abu Dhabi Traditional Dhow Sailing Race – 22ft category will take place this coming Sunday, as part of the club’s annual heritage racing program.

Registration for the race opened through the club’s official website, and the organizing committee has received a large number of applications, currently finalizing the technical and logistical preparations.

According to the club’s statement, the race will begin from outside Abu Dhabi and cover a distance of 5 nautical miles, finishing in front of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club on the capital’s Corniche. This event marks the fourth round of the 22ft dhow series in the current season.

The race is geared towards youth and junior sailors, offering them the opportunity to experience sailing, engage in strong competition, and gain essential skills—helping to develop the next generation of sailors and prepare them for participation in higher-tier races such as the 60ft dhow category.

Khalifa Al Rumaithi, Head of Heritage Races at the club, emphasized the importance of these events in preserving the UAE’s rich maritime traditions, passed down by forefathers. He stated that organizing such races allows young Emiratis to connect with the sea and appreciate its cultural significance.

Al Rumaithi also highlighted the role of the 22ft dhow races in supporting heritage sports, strengthening the dhow’s symbolic value as a national icon, and providing a competitive platform that encourages youth to enhance their skills and embrace new challenges.

He praised the commitment of dhow owners and captains (nawakhtha) for registering their vessels, their active participation, and their cooperation with the race regulations—contributing to the ongoing success of the heritage racing season.