ABU DHABI: The seventh edition of the Historic Dalma Race Festival, organised by Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, is set to commence tomorrow, 26th April, and will run until 5th May in Dalma Island, in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Marine Sports Federation and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, lauded the festival’s distinctive successes and diverse activities catering to all segments of society.
He further remarked, ‘The festival serves as a platform for showcasing the UAE’s culture and heritage through its diverse and innovative activities. Its overarching goal is to raise awareness about the significance of preserving heritage, the environment, marine life, and coastal ecosystems. Moreover, it aims to promote the practice of authentic and environmentally friendly sports on an ongoing basis, aligning with the nation’s initiatives aimed at advancing these aspects to achi
eve the highest standards of sustainability.’
He highlighted that the Historic Dalma 60-foot dhow race enhances the island’s historical value, particularly for seafaring communities who eagerly participate to claim victory in the longest race, boasting valuable prizes and prestigious titles. This race holds a prominent position within the realm of dhow sailing competitions in both the country and the region.
Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, highlighted that the festival revitalises UAE’s maritime heritage, sporting activities, and sea heritage crafts, making it a significant occasion witnessed by the Al Dhafra community. This festival, he added, stands as a pioneer event in reviving such races that serve as a reminder of the ancestral past and safeguard the maritime heritage identity for future generations.
Since its inception in 2017, the Historic Dalma Race Festival has emerged as the premier sea h
eritage celebration held annually on the island. It showcases a multitude of traditional and modern marine and beach events, cultural exhibitions, and sports competitions. Additionally, the festival offers a wide range of recreational and educational activities alongside heritage games, boasting prizes exceeding a total value of more than AED32 million.
Both captains and sailors eagerly anticipate the festival’s highlight: the 60-foot sailing dhows race, renowned as the longest of its category, spanning over 68 nautical miles or 125 kilometres. The race starts from the historic island of Dalma and navigates through eight islands, namely Sir Baniyas, Ghasha, Umm Al-Kurkum, Al-Fatayer, Al-Bazm, Al-Fayy, Mrawah, and Janana, before culminating at Al-Mugheirah Corniche beach in Al Dhafra. With prizes totaling approximately AED 30 million, the rewards are substantial. The first-place winner receives one million and 300 thousand dirhams along with a car, while the second-place winner earns one million dirhams and a
car. The third-place winner is awarded AED800,000 and a car. The remaining prizes are distributed among winners up to the 120th place.
The festival also includes a traditional souk where local families showcase their products, ranging from popular foods to handicrafts, in an endeavour to bolster economic activity on Dalma Island. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls featuring goods crafted by these families. Additionally, the market hosts various entertainment and heritage shows, featuring performances by the Abu Dhabi folklore troupes, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the event.
The event seeks to preserve the Emirati heritage and national identity by highlighting marine activities and their associated vernacular to the public. It also aims to showcase traditional crafts, attracting artisans and enthusiasts alike. Moreover, the festival serves as an opportunity to promote the island as a tourist destination within the UAE. Visitors are welcome daily from 16:00 to 22:00 to partake in the festivities.
Source: Emirates News Agency