Dalma’s legendary sailing race set to commence in early November

The ninth edition of the Dalma Historic 60ft Dhow Sailing Race has a provisional start date of November 4, pending final confirmation of weather and sea conditions. The iconic maritime competition remains one of the region's most distinguished traditional races.

The organising committee has designated Wednesday, November 4, 2026, as the provisional commencement date for the ninth Dalma Historic Long Distance Dhow Sailing Race in the 60ft category, with Thursday, November 5, held in reserve should conditions require adjustment. The final confirmation of the race date will be announced on Sunday, November 1, following consultation with the National Centre of Meteorology and careful review of the latest marine forecasts.

This deliberate approach to timing reflects the committee’s commitment to maritime safety and security as paramount considerations. The race captains, known as Nokhathas, and all participants have been urged to await official confirmation before making their journey to Dalma Island, ensuring that all organisational and technical preparations align with the confirmed schedule.

The Dalma Historic Race spans approximately 68 nautical miles, tracing a course that departs from Dalma Island and passes through a succession of natural and historic islands including Sir Bani Yas, Ghasha, Umm Al Kurkum, Al Fatayer, Al Bazm, Al Fiyi, Marawah, and Janana before concluding at the shores of Al Mugheirah. The race forms the centrepiece of the ninth Dalma Historic Race Festival, which runs from October 30 to November 15, 2026, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region.

Organised jointly by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, the festival extends well beyond the principal sailing competition. The diverse programme celebrates traditional maritime heritage through the Dalma 40ft Traditional Rowing Race, the Dalma Shaari Fishing Championship, and an extensive calendar of sporting tournaments including cycling, running and swimming events, alongside heritage competitions designed to engage all segments of the community. The total prize purse for the 60ft race reaches AED 30 million.

This maritime journey embodies the profound historical connection between the people of the United Arab Emirates and the sea. The Dalma festival continues to serve a vital cultural purpose: preserving the nation’s maritime heritage and strengthening its resonance with future generations, whilst illuminating the historical and cultural significance of Dalma Island and the Al Dhafra Region as leading destinations for heritage and sporting events within Abu Dhabi.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

The Dalma Historic Sailing Race represents far more than a sporting spectacle. It functions as a living repository of Emirati maritime tradition, connecting contemporary competitors and spectators to centuries of seafaring heritage that shaped the region’s cultural identity and historical trajectory.

For Abu Dhabi residents and visitors, the festival embodies the Emirate’s commitment to honouring its authentic heritage whilst fostering community engagement across age groups and interests. The comprehensive programming ensures that the celebration extends beyond elite maritime competition to encompass traditional sports, fishing championships, and recreational activities that invite broad participation and cultural connection.

Source: WAM