The 32nd Al Gaffal Race Forum is being held today at the W Hotel Dubai - Mina Seyahi for the upcoming race scheduled from Friday to Sunday. The race will cover a distance of 50 nautical miles, starting from Sir Bu Na'air Island and finishing at the Dubai Coast.

This prestigious race is held under the patronage and support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Organized by the Dubai International Marine Club, it serves as the season finale for 2022-2023. The event holds great significance as it is the largest, most prestigious, and highly anticipated race in terms of participation. It pays homage to the heritage of the ancestors while sending a message to future generations, inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. 

During today's forum, the Higher Organizing Committee, Boat Owners, and Sailors participating in the Al Gaffal race will come together to exchange views and engage in discussions about the upcoming race.

Mohammed Harib, a member of the Higher Organizing Committee of the race, stated that the forum is being held in accordance with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. His Highness emphasizes the importance of facilitating the participants and ensuring their safety during the race as they navigate from the race's starting point to the shores of Dubai. 

He further explained that the convening of this forum is a continuation of the efforts of the Dubai International Marine Club's board of directors and the higher organizing committee, chaired by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, wherein they strive to engage with stakeholders of this sport and relevant individuals, including sailors and boat owners. These forums have become a tradition for the club, aiming to exchange views and identify the challenges they might face during the race.

Additionally, Harib stated that preparations have been initiated early on to complete the logistical and technical requirements through the support of club partners from the Government Department and National Institution, where they are actively engaged in an action plan to ensure the success of the race. Furthermore, they have coordinated with various entities to address important aspects related to the accompanying events, which will be announced prior to the race date.

He also emphasized the efforts of the organizing committee in receiving participation through the dedicated website, www.algaffal.ae. As of yesterday, it has surpassed 100 boats with more expected before the registration deadline in the middle of the week. This will be followed by the club's convoy heading towards Sir Bu Na'air Island, which has served as the starting point of the race since its inauguration in 1991.

On the other hand, a delegation from the Dubai International Marine Club visited Sir Bu Na'air Island last Saturday to discuss the arrangements for the early arrival of the Higher Organizing Committee's convoy in preparation for welcoming the race participants before the start date. They also finalized the participation procedures on the island, which included safety inspections and the provision of satellite tracking systems and other necessary equipment to the participating boats.

Accompanying the Dubai International Marine Club's convoy to Sir Bu Na'air Island are several maritime vessels, including the historic yacht "Zabeel," which will be dedicated to the Higher Organizing Committee. Additionally, a floating field hospital.