Take to the waters for the Dalma Race Festival this May

Expect dhow racing, maritime activities, shows and more.

The beautiful Dalma Island will be the scene of the fifth edition of the Dalma Race Festival.

Taking to the waves from 7 to 20 May, the festival aims to revive marine traditions, offering new generations a chance to experience and value them while promoting the economic development on Dalma and other Emirati islands in the Al Dhafra region, highlighting their historical value and natural beauty.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the 60-foot dhow race covers a distance of 80 nautical miles (125km) and includes nine islands; Dalma Island; Sir Baniyas, Ghasha, Umm Al KurKum, Al Fatayer, Al Bazm, Al Fay, Marawah and Janana before finishing at Al Mirfa city.

 

 

You can expect to also enjoy a great lineup of aquatic activities including the Fishing Competition (casting), dominoes contests for men and women, carrom tournaments, cycling, running, fireworks, theatre events and other folklore shows.

The festival will also include a souq where you can get your hands on some nifty Emirati maritime heritage gear as well as some tasty food.

Kids will also be able to have a whale of a time at the Children’s Village & Theatre where they can take part in competitions and win prizes as well as experience heritage and folk contests and traditional handicrafts workshops.

All visitors will need to produce a green pass on their Al Hosn app to gain entry to the Dalma Race Festival.

 

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Image source Abu Dhabi Government Media Office website

Matt Cassidy

When he is not hunting for the latest piece of Abu Dhabi news, Matt is ticking off his UAE bucket-list experiences (although he does love to take a break to test out the fine restaurants and bars of the capital). An armchair sports lover, he is on a personal mission to attend every sporting event in the UAE to make out for most likely missing the big one in Doha in November.