Abu Al Abyad 60ft Dhow Sailing Race to Begin on September 20

The calm waters of Abu Al Abyad Island will soon come alive with sails and tradition as the much-anticipated Abu Al Abyad 60ft Dhow Sailing Race sets off on September 20–21, under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region. The event, organised by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club (ADMSC), marks the opening chapter of the new season’s heritage marine racing calendar, combining competitive spirit with cultural preservation.

A Celebration of UAE’s Maritime Heritage

Dhow sailing is not just a sport in the United Arab Emirates—it is a living reminder of the nation’s maritime roots, fishing traditions, and pearl-diving history. The Abu Al Abyad race serves as a bridge between the UAE’s seafaring past and its modern identity, ensuring that younger generations continue to learn about and participate in the sport.

The 60ft dhow category is one of the most prestigious in the championship, featuring sleek, towering vessels that require immense skill and coordination to navigate. These wooden sailing boats, crafted in the time-honoured Emirati tradition, are powered entirely by wind, demanding both technical expertise and teamwork from sailors.

Over 90 Dhows to Compete

This year’s edition promises to be larger and more competitive than ever before, with more than 90 dhows registered to compete. Each dhow will be manned by a crew of sailors and captains who have honed their skills over years of participation in traditional regattas.

Covering a course of 20 nautical miles, the race will test stamina, tactical acumen, and seamanship. Weather conditions, wind patterns, and sea currents will play a major role in determining the strategies used by teams, making the event both unpredictable and exhilarating.

AED 4.23 Million Prize Purse

In an effort to encourage participation and reward excellence, the organising committee has allocated a staggering AED 4,238,000 prize purse. Prizes will be distributed across the top 90 finishing positions, ensuring that nearly every team has a chance to benefit from their efforts.

This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment not only to preserving maritime heritage but also to motivating future generations to remain engaged in the sport. The distribution of prizes across such a wide range reflects the inclusive spirit of the event, giving smaller teams a tangible reason to compete with determination.

Voices from the Sailing Community

Sailors and captains have expressed their excitement ahead of the competition. Many see the Abu Al Abyad race as more than just a sporting event; it is an opportunity to come together as a community, honour their ancestors, and showcase their skills before a wide audience.

“Every race reminds us of our roots,” said one experienced dhow captain. “These waters have witnessed the struggles and triumphs of our forefathers. Sailing here, in a dhow built with traditional craftsmanship, is both an honour and a responsibility.”

Younger participants also highlighted how the event inspires them to carry forward traditions while adapting them to modern sporting formats. For many, the race is a proud moment that connects them to the UAE’s cultural identity.

Sheikh Hamdan’s Patronage

The patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan reflects the UAE leadership’s dedication to protecting cultural practices while promoting them as global sporting events. Sheikh Hamdan has consistently emphasised the importance of heritage sports in preserving Emirati identity, particularly in Al Dhafra, a region known for its deep ties to the sea.

Under his guidance, heritage races such as the Abu Al Abyad dhow sailing competition have grown in stature, attracting not just local but also regional and international attention.

A Season Opener of Significance

The Abu Al Abyad 60ft race serves as the first round of the 60ft Dhow Sailing Championship, setting the tone for the rest of the season. Performances here will determine early favourites and give an indication of which teams may dominate future rounds.

With four more races scheduled across different locations, the championship has become a highlight of the UAE’s heritage sporting calendar. The opening round is crucial, as teams aim to secure early points and establish momentum for the season ahead.

Sustainability and National Identity

A key theme of the race is sustainability—both in terms of sport and culture. By keeping traditional dhow racing alive, the UAE ensures that heritage practices remain relevant for future generations. The large-scale participation also reinforces the idea of community involvement and pride in national traditions.

At the same time, the event has been carefully designed to align with modern sporting standards, combining safety, organisation, and competitiveness while retaining authenticity.

Tourism and Global Attention

Beyond its cultural and sporting significance, the Abu Al Abyad dhow race also serves as a major tourism attraction. The sight of dozens of traditional dhows with their sails unfurled against the backdrop of the Gulf waters is breathtaking and often draws international visitors, photographers, and media outlets.

The event showcases Abu Dhabi not only as a global city but also as a custodian of traditions that date back centuries. By broadcasting the race and promoting it through media partnerships, the organisers hope to share the UAE’s maritime culture with audiences worldwide.

Economic and Social Impact

With thousands of participants and spectators expected, the race will also generate significant economic activity in the region. Hotels, restaurants, and transport services benefit from the influx of visitors, while local craftsmen who build and maintain dhows receive recognition for their skills.

Socially, the event strengthens bonds among communities across the Emirates. Families travel together to watch, support, and cheer for their teams, turning the race into a festive occasion that blends competition with celebration.

As the countdown begins, anticipation is building across Abu Dhabi and beyond. With ideal sailing conditions forecast for the race days, organisers expect a smooth and thrilling competition. Safety measures have been prioritised, with rescue teams and medical staff on standby to respond to any emergencies.

The Abu Al Abyad race is more than just a sporting contest; it is a celebration of heritage, unity, and national pride. It demonstrates how the UAE balances rapid modernisation with the preservation of traditions that define its cultural fabric.

The spectacle of 90 dhows slicing through the waters, their sails stretched by the wind, will stand as a tribute to generations of Emiratis who relied on the sea for survival and identity.