Dubai: The Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has announced the formation of the Supreme Organising Committee for the 35th edition of the Al Gaffal Race for 60 feet dhows. This prestigious event will be held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai. The decision was reached during the club's second regular Board of Directors meeting for 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the newly formed Supreme Organising Committee will be chaired by Dr. Ahmed Saeed bin Meshar, with Saif Juma Al Suwaidi serving as Vice-Chairman. The committee members include Khalid Khamis bin Dismal, Khalid Ali Al Balooshi, and Mohammed Abdullah Harib, CEO of Dubai International Marine Club, while Mohammed Fadhel Al Sadi has been appointed as Committee Rapporteur.
Dr. Ahmed Saeed bin Meshar expressed his gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his unwavering support for marine sports in Dubai, particularly the Al Gaffal Race. He highlighted the race's successful journey aligning with the vision of its founder, the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The Al Gaffal Race, since its inception in 1991, has become one of the oldest and most notable heritage marine sporting events in the Gulf region and the Arab world. It underscores the UAE leadership's dedication to preserving national heritage and handing down the values and traditions of past generations.
Additionally, Dr. Ahmed noted that the race represents the profound relationship between the people of the UAE and the sea, which for generations has been a source of livelihood and prosperity. It also serves as a platform for sporting competition and community involvement.
In light of current regional developments, the Board of Directors stated that the Supreme Organising Committee will conduct continuous monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety of all participants and organizers. The race is proposed to take place between 16 and 31 May, with ongoing evaluations.
The committee is also preparing contingency plans in line with the evolving situation, ensuring logistical and technical readiness, and maintaining coordination with relevant government entities to secure the race course according to the highest public safety standards.
Launched in 1991 as a tribute to the UAE's maritime heritage, the Al Gaffal Race remains a symbol of national identity and an expression of the country's rich seafaring legacy. The club affirmed that preparations for the 35th edition are ongoing and will ensure the race is delivered in a manner befitting its history and status, once conditions permit.
Over the years, the Al Gaffal Race has evolved into a major heritage maritime event, attracting over 3,000 participants each year in a unique sporting and cultural spectacle. Spanning over 50 nautical miles, the race recreates the traditional return journey from the pearl diving season.
The Dubai International Marine Club organized the 34th edition of the race on 2 May last year, with more than 110 dhows participating. Zilzal 25 claimed the title, crossing the finish line off Burj Al Arab to secure its fourth victory.