Dubai International Marine Club bid farewell to a year filled with successes and pioneering initiatives, marked by numerous significant milestones. The club reaffirmed its status as a premier global destination for hosting and organizing events, upholding its legacy of excellence since its establishment in 1988 and its emergence on the international stage in the early 1990s.
This organizational distinction was complemented by technical achievements, exemplified by the outstanding performances of the UAE’s ambassador, the Victory Team. Competing on the global stage, they delivered remarkable results, proudly raising the nation’s flag high.
The club began 2024 with the esteemed trust of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council. His issuance of Resolution No. (1) of 2024 appointed a new Board of Directors to lead the Dubai International Marine Club for the next four years, heralding a new chapter in the club’s nearly four-decade history.
Strengthening its global, regional, and international presence, the club hosted the opening round of the UIM’s 2024 calendar with the UAE International Aquabike Championship and concluded the year with the final round of the 2024 UIM XCAT World Powerboat Championship – Dubai Grand Prix. This iconic event returned to the club’s calendar after a two-year hiatus and was held at Jumeirah Beach over three days, bringing renewed attention and prestige to the event.
Additionally, the club hosted the first-ever Special Olympics MENA Sailing – Dubai 2024, a five-day event featuring six teams from the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Morocco. Organized in partnership with the Special Olympics UAE, this event marked the inaugural regional sailing competition for the Middle East and North Africa.
The club excelled in its heritage marine sporting events, including the Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Races in the 60ft, 43ft, and 22ft categories, as well as traditional rowing boat races (30ft). These were part of the 2023–2024 and 2024–2025 seasons. The highlights included the 33rd edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race from Sir Bu Nair Island to Dubai’s shores last May and the 28th edition of the Al Maktoum Cup Traditional Rowing Race – 30ft last November.
The Victory Team, serving as the UAE’s sports ambassador, competed in two major global events in 2024. In the F1H2O World Powerboat Championship, the Victory 3 boat, led by Ahmed Al Fahim, and the Victory 4 boat, led by Erik Stark, secured third place in the overall standings with 102.5 points and second in the Pole Position, while the team finished fourth overall. In the XCAT World Powerboat Championship, the Victory 7 boat, led by Salem Al Adidi and Eisa Al Ali, claimed third place at the end of the season.
A significant milestone was achieved in 2024 when the club entered into an agreement with the American Powerboat Team Miami to manage its team operations through the Victory Team’s administrative and technical staff. Competing in the inaugural edition of the 2024 E1 Series, Team Miami concluded the season in second place.
New Industry
The Dubai International Marine Club proudly participated in the 30th edition of the Dubai International Boat Show 2024, an event historically linked to the club since its inception in 1992. Serving as a supporting partner, the club showcased its pivotal role in advancing marine sports and highlighted its contributions to the industry. This included promoting innovation in boat building, design, and jet skis, while also inspiring water sports enthusiasts and nurturing emerging talents.
The club’s pavilion, set in an outdoor display area, which captured the attention of the crowd through the Victory Team Department. unveiling its latest productions: a fishing boat built to international standards (VT 51) and a high-speed pleasure boat (VTX 34), alongside its renowned XCAT and Formula 1 boats. Beyond its exhibition presence, the club also organized two marine sporting events: the Dubai Fishing Competition for Kingfish and Cobia, and the Night Show for Aquabike, further enriching the show’s activities.
Schools and Universities
As part of its commitment to promoting marine sports and identifying new talents, the club launched the “Learn to Sail Initiative,” visiting schools and universities to engage participants in a Modern Sailing Course.
In collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the club also introduced the first women training program, conducted in partnership with the Dubai Ladies Club. This initiative aimed to encourage sports participation, particularly modern sailing, and foster a culture of physical activity among women, with a special focus on Emirati women.
Community Initiative
The club organized a unique community event at Jumeirah Beach with the "Around the World in 18 Hours" Swimming Challenge. This extraordinary marine sports event emphasized the importance of open-water swimming while showcasing the breathtaking Dubai waterfront. The event was held in collaboration with Pirate Surf Rescue UAE, the event reinforced the club’s commitment to community engagement and the promotion of marine sports.
