News

Abu Dhabi, UAE – September 11, 2025: The Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club has set Saturday, September 13 as the date for the start of the Nouf Traditional Dhow Sailing Race in the 43-foot class, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, as part of this year’s heritage racing program.

The race will commence from Ali Island, Al Alya, covering a distance of 20 nautical miles, heading towards the finish line in front of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club headquarters on the Corniche of the capital. Registration has witnessed great enthusiasm from dhow owners and captains, with the number of registered boats reaching 80 dhows.

The organizing committee has completed all technical, logistical, and administrative arrangements, closely monitoring compliance with participation requirements according to the regulations for this category. They have also ensured the availability of safety equipment for captains and sailors and adherence to the technical standards required for the dhows to conduct the race under safe and ideal conditions.

The 43-foot sailing dhows represent the intermediate category in traditional races, which start from the Banush and the 22-foot category designated for youth, young sailors, and beginners, paving the way to the 43-foot class and ultimately the 60-foot class, the premier racing category.

These heritage races attract many young participants eager to experience the challenge, held in a festive atmosphere that celebrates the legacy of ancestors and forefathers, highlighting the maritime values deeply rooted in their lives, and reinforcing national identity.