News

Abu Dhabi, July 2, 2025 : The "Nokhatha Abu Dhabi" program, organized by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Academy and supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, officially kicked off with strong participation. Over the first two days, the program welcomed 68 students as part of the first group to begin training in an interactive educational environment that reflects the authentic maritime heritage of the UAE.

The two-month program aims to instill national identity values in young participants by equipping them with essential maritime skills. These include the basics of sailing 22-foot traditional dhows, swimming fundamentals, operating modern boats, handling Optimist dinghies, as well as understanding sea elements, weather patterns, traditional navigation tools, and wind reading.

Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Head of the Academy at Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, emphasized that the program's strong turnout reflects the youth’s deep interest in maritime heritage. He stated: “Nokhatha Abu Dhabi is an ideal platform for nurturing the next generation’s skills in traditional marine sports. It embodies the club leadership’s vision of preserving national heritage and preparing a new generation of skilled ‘nukhadha’ (captains) to carry the legacy forward.”

He added: “We are proud to have reached 68 participants within the first two days, and we expect even more in the coming days. Daily training continues under the supervision of highly qualified coaches, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety.”

The "Nokhatha Abu Dhabi" program is considered one of the unique initiatives aligned with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s vision to support community and heritage-focused events. It aims to reconnect younger generations with the UAE’s maritime environment through practical, immersive experiences delivered in a comprehensive educational and recreational format.