May 12, 2017: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance, received the members of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the traditional 60ft Dhow Sailing Race, Al Qaffal, including the Vice President of the Dubai International Marine Club and the members of the Board of Directors of the club. 

 

During the meeting which was held at the Yacht Fahidi, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was briefed on the preparations for the big race which will kick off tomorrow. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan extended his best wishes to the participating dhows. Around 120 dhows will start the race from the Sir Bonair island and will finish at Dubai, for a 50-nautical miles.

 

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan praised the efforts of the Dubai International Marine Sports Club and the UAE institutions and government departments in organizing this event.

 

H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club, extended his thanks to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his closely and continuous support to the event since 1991 when H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid established the race.

 

He added: Since then, the race has become a successful event reflecting the Emiratis appreciation for the UAE heritage and for the traditional activities of parents and grandparents. Through this annual race, we renew our obligation to preserve and maintain the spirit of the UAE cultural heritage for the coming generations to know about the Emiratis’ life in the past when the sea was their main livelihood.