Abu Dhabi:Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ninth edition of the Dalma Historic Race Festival is set to take place from 30th October to 15th November 2026 on Dalma Island in the Al Dhafra Region. The festival is organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club.
According to Wam, the festival will welcome visitors every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6 to 15 November, with competitors participating from 30 October until 15 November. The event will feature a diverse program of marine races, sporting competitions, and community activities. The highlight is the Dalma Historic Long-Distance Sailing Dhow Race for 60-foot dhows, covering approximately 68 nautical miles with a prize purse of up to AED30 million.
The race will start from Dalma Island and pass several historically significant natural islands before finishing at Al Mugheirah Beach. Additionally, the festival will include the Dalma Traditional Rowing Boat Race and the Dalma Shaari Fishing Championship. Visitors can also enjoy a range of sporting competitions and creative contests, including photography and video challenges, as well as a heritage village and market.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan highlighted the festival's role in preserving the UAE's maritime heritage and its significance as a community event. Abdullah Mubarak Al Muhairi expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for supporting heritage programs and emphasized the festival as a platform for marine competitions and community activities. Aref Hamad Al Awani also praised the festival's patronage and its importance in showcasing the nation's maritime heritage.
Source Wam