Preserving Traditional Sports as a Living Heritage of the Nation
The Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region underscores the cultural significance of traditional sports as the ninth Dalma Historic Sailing Festival prepares to commence
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, has affirmed the paramount importance of safeguarding traditional sports as a cornerstone of the United Arab Emirates’ national identity and cultural legacy. In remarks addressing the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, His Highness emphasised the vital necessity of transmitting these cherished practices to succeeding generations, ensuring their continuance as living expressions of Emirati heritage.
The occasion brought together a distinguished delegation to review comprehensive preparations for the ninth Dalma Historic Sailing Festival, an event of considerable significance scheduled to unfold between 30th October and 15th November. His Highness stressed the imperative of cultivating participation amongst young people through carefully designed programmes and initiatives that deepen their connection to the nation’s illustrious history and foundational values, thereby advancing the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Emphasising the collaborative spirit essential to this endeavour, His Highness highlighted the profound value of cooperation between sports organisations and heritage institutions in fostering community engagement, identifying emerging talent and nurturing excellence in traditional sporting disciplines.
Orchestrated through the collective endeavours of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, the festival presents a remarkable showcase of Emirati maritime traditions. The centrepiece comprises an extraordinarily ambitious 125-kilometre race for 60-foot traditional sailing dhows, commencing from Dalma Island and concluding at Al Mugheirah Beach in Mirfa, with total cash prizes amounting to AED25 million. The festival programme encompasses traditional rowing races, falconry and fishing competitions, alongside swimming, cycling, running, kayaking and an extensive array of beach and community sporting activities.
Through this celebratory occasion, the festival champions the UAE’s distinguished maritime heritage whilst simultaneously advancing sports development, enriching the tourism landscape and invigorating community life throughout Al Dhafra Region, creating a harmonious convergence of cultural preservation and contemporary sporting excellence.
Source: WAM