Dubai's Al Gaffal race features 125 traditional dhows

The 18-metre boats covered a 92km course from Sir Bu Nair Island to Burj Al Arab

Competitors train on the eve of the Al Gaffal Race, near Dubai. All photos: EPA

Sailors in action during a training session on the eve of the al Gaffal Race outside Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 29 May 2023. Al Gaffal long distance Sur Bin Na'air 60ft Traditional Dhow Race, in a traditional Dhow boat, is the biggest traditional sailing race in the world. 125 boats take part in the race which starts from Sur Bu Na'air Island and reaches the finish line at the luxury hotel of Burj Al Arab in the coast of Dubai passing by Moon Island. The race was conceived by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and currently under patronage of the Crown Prince of Dubai ÊH. H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum which is seeking to protect the heritage and the traditional marine sports. EPA / ALI HAIDER

The race, featuring 125 boats, starts from Sur Bu Nair Island and finishes at Burj Al Arab

The race was conceived by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid and is currently under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai

Competitors cover over 50 nautical miles in the race, which took place from May 26 to May 28

Organised by the Dubai International Marine Club, the annual event takes place at the end of the marine sports season

Sheikh Hamdan says the race has made significant contributions to reviving the UAE’s marine heritage

The race, which has grown in popularity over the years, celebrates the role of the sea in the society, culture and economy of the nation

This year's edition of Dubai's Al Ghaffal race featured 125 traditional dhows setting sail from Sir Bu Nair Island on Tuesday morning.

The 18-metre boats raced along the coast of Dubai, on a 92km course passing Crescent Moon Island. They crossed the finish line near Burj Al Arab hotel on Tuesday afternoon.

The heritage race, organised by the Dubai International Marine Club, is the largest traditional sailing race in the world.

It was conceived by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid in 1991 and has been held every year since then at the end of the marine sports season.