The Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has announced the organization of the first round of the Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race (60ft), as part of the club's activities for the marine sports season 2023-2024.
The organizing committee at the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has already begun preparations for the upcoming event this Saturday, in close coordination with key partners from government departments and national institutions. These collaborations are crucial for the successful execution of all DIMC events and races.
The race on Saturday is expected to attract significant participation from boat owners, captains, and sailors, given the event's importance in bringing together some of the most prominent figures in this competition. Registration for the race is now open through the club's website at www.dimc.ae
The 60ft Dhow Sailing Race will feature three rounds this season. The first round takes place this Saturday, followed by the second round in mid-December, and concluding with the final round, which coincides with the conclusion of the season during the 33rd Al Gaffal Long Distance Race from Sir Bu Na’air Island to the Dubai Coast, scheduled for April next year.
1993
In 2023, the 60ft Dhow Sailing Race marks its thirty-first season, having been inaugurated during the third edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race in 1993. This race covers the journey from Sir Bu Nair Island, passing through the waters of the Arabian Gulf to the picturesque shores of Dubai.
Over the course of three decades, the 60ft Dhow Sailing Race has embarked on a remarkable journey under the auspices of the Dubai International Marine Club. This category was established as a translation of the vision of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, whose contributions have left indelible marks on the history of marine sports. These efforts have significantly supported the development of traditional races, with the aim of preserving the legacy of their forefathers for future generations.
The Al Gaffal Race, which commenced in 1991, initially featured competition among 43ft Dhow Sailing Race during its first edition in 1991 and its second edition in 1992. It was in the third edition in 1993 that a significant milestone was reached, marking the inception of a dual race that included two categories: 43ft dhow boats and 60ft dhow boats.
In 1994, it was officially approved that only 60ft Dhow boats would participate in the fourth edition of the Al Gaffal Race. This tradition has endured and prospered, with the most recent edition taking place last June 2023, marking its 32nd year.
36
The inaugural event of the 60ft Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race, hosted by the Dubai International Marine Club, took place on May 26, 1993. Sixteen boats participated, and it was boat number 36, "Mansour," that claimed the championship title.
Race Schedule:
