The Higher Organizing Committee of the 33rd Al Gaffal 60ft Traditional Dhow Sailing Race, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, has approved next Wednesday (15th of May) as the date for the 33rd edition of this prestigious heritage racing event.

This renowned race, annually organized by the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) since 1991, commences from Sir Bu Nair Island, passes through Moon Island, and concludes at the Dubai shore. Over 120 dhow boats with more than 2,500 sailors on-board retrace the footsteps of their forefathers, returning home from diving and fishing trips in search of abundant livelihood.

The decision of the Higher Organizing Committee came after closely monitoring the weather forecast, with the date chosen to ensure the success of the race and the safety of all participants, guaranteeing their safe arrival at the finish line on the Dubai shore.

H.E. Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) and the Higher Organizing Committee, expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, for his support and continuous follow-up for the race's success, in continuation of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum's message, who founded the race in 1991.

Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar said that the Higher Organizing Committee of the 33rd Al Gaffal Race places the security and safety of all participants and members of the working committees as a top priority in its plans for the success of the event. Therefore, it has decided to exercise patience in setting the appropriate date and studying the best conditions for the success of the event, especially considering the various fluctuations in weather conditions during this period.

The head of the Higher Organizing Committee for the 33rd Al Gaffal Race explained that the committee and the rest of the supporting committees were staying up late to follow up on the reports and every new development that occurred in this matter. They were also keen to seek the opinion of the concerned people themselves, including boat owners and sailors, about the suitability of the date and assessing their satisfaction with the race being held in the previously specified period.

Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar commended the remarkable cooperation and ongoing enthusiasm demonstrated by boat owners and sailors. Their consistent response each year underscores their deep affection for this heritage race. This is evident through the high demand for participation immediately after the registration was announced. The number of boats reached 118 and is anticipated to rise in the next two days before the club's convoy sets course for Sir Bu Nair Island to welcome the arrival of participants on Monday and complete safety inspections on both boats and tow boats.

The Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for the 33rd Al Gaffal Race called on all boat owners and sailors to adhere to all conditions and follow the directives of the committee supervising the event, especially regarding the issue of moving to Sir Bu Nair Island and notifying the organizing committee of the movement as well upon their arrival on the island, noting the necessity of reviewing the instructions for being in the Sir Bu Nair Reserve.

At the end of his speech, Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar appreciated the great efforts made by the success partners among the government entities and national institutions, which stand with the organizing committee to make the race a successful one. These include Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Police, Sharjah Police, National Guard (Fourth Squadron), Dubai Civil Defense, Dubai Media Incorporated (Dubai Sports TV Channels), Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Department of Economy and Tourism, Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Dubai Ambulance, Nakheel Company, Sharjah Environment and Natural Reserves Authority, Abu Dhabi Ports, UAE Marine Sports Federation, VIP Doctors, and PHI Advertising Company.