The Higher Organizing Committee for the 33rd edition of the Al Gaffal 60ft Traditional Dhow Sailing Race, being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, has elevated its level of readiness and preparation for the success of the race scheduled from the 11th to 19th of May.

Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has annually organized the race since 1991, commencing from Sir Bu Na’air Island, passing through Moon Island, and concluding at the finish line on Dubai's shore. Spanning over 50 nautical miles, the race attracts over 100 dhow boats, each with sailors and captains on board. This event commemorates the historical journeys of their forefathers, who returned from pearl diving and fishing expeditions.

Yesterday, at W Dubai Mina Seyahi, the General Meeting between the organizing committee and government departments and national institutions' representatives took place in the presence of DIMC's Board of Directors Khalid bin Dasmal, Khalid Al Balooshi, Mohammed Abdulla Harib (CEO and Race Supervisor), Brigadier Dr. Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi (Director of Ports Police Station, Dubai), and Colonel Marwan Al-Marzouqi (National Guard Command, 4th Squadron, Facilities Protection Unit).

The meeting saw a significant turnout from success partners including Dubai Police, Sharjah Police, Vital Facilities and Coastal Protection Agency (Fourth Squadron Command), Critical Infrastructure & Coastal Protection Authority, Dubai Civil Defence, Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, Department of Economy and Tourism (Dubai Calendar), Dubai Media Incorporated (Dubai Sports TV Channel), Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Ambulance, the General Administration of Civil Defense in Dubai, the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, the Department of Economy and Tourism (Dubai Events Schedule), and Dubai Media Incorporated (Dubai Channels), among others.

Mohammed Abdullah Harib, a member of the Higher Organizing Committee and race supervisor, welcomed the representatives, acknowledging their support and contribution in ensuring the race's success over three decades. The meeting covered race details, including a comprehensive explanation by the organizing committee on the timetable, registration start date, journey to Sir Bu Na’air Island, and detailed weather reports from the National Center of Meteorology. Requirements and plans were also reviewed, concluding with a unified work plan under the Higher Organizing Committee to ensure safety and security for participants, owners, captains, and sailors.

The meeting also addressed TV broadcast arrangements through the club’s media partner, Dubai Media Incorporated, facilitating live coverage of the race and pre-race events at the Al Gaffal Race Village. Harib expressed gratitude to the attendees from government departments, institutions, and bodies for their ongoing support and assistance in all club-organized events within the sports season calendar.