Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri to Host Prestigious Dragon Boat Festival
The enchanting waterfront setting of Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri is set to become the epicentre of sporting excellence and celebration this weekend, as the resort hosts the eagerly anticipated Dragon Boat Festival. Taking place on Saturday 24th October and Sunday 25th October, 2026, the event promises an exhilarating showcase of athletic prowess and festive atmosphere along the serene waters of Khor Al Maqta Creek.
Athletes from throughout the United Arab Emirates will converge upon the resort to participate in the spirited dragon boat races, a spectacle that combines traditional maritime competition with contemporary sporting fervour. The distinctive multi-oared vessels, steeped in cultural significance, will slice through the creek’s tranquil waters as competitors vie for victory across the weekend’s programme.
Positioned as a haven of refined leisure and hospitality, the resort’s private waterfront location provides an exquisite setting for both participants and spectators to savour the unfolding competitions. The picturesque backdrop of the creek, coupled with the resort’s elegant Arabian architecture and manicured landscapes, creates an atmosphere of understated sophistication that elevates the event beyond the sporting arena.
For guests of the resort, the festival presents an enchanting opportunity to witness international sporting excellence without venturing far from their sanctuary of comfort. The weekend offers a compelling fusion of leisure and cultural engagement, allowing visitors to experience authentic Emirati hospitality whilst engaging with a celebration of athletic achievement.
The Dragon Boat Festival stands as a testament to Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri’s commitment to hosting events that enrich the cultural and sporting calendar of Abu Dhabi. Whether one comes as a competitor, spectator or guest seeking an immersive weekend experience, the resort’s championship-calibre facilities and gracious service ensure an occasion of genuine distinction along the creek’s enchanting shores.
Imagery courtesy of Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi.
On Simply Luxury: Shangri-La