Sharjah Broadcasting Authority Launches Second Sir Bu Nair Dhow Sailing Race
The prestigious maritime heritage event returns with 71 dhows, over 1,000 sailors and AED 3 million in prizes, alongside a new government employee challenge
Sharjah’s maritime traditions will take centre stage this October as the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority announces the second edition of the Sir Bu Nair Dhow Sailing Race, a celebration of the UAE’s seafaring heritage and traditional sporting excellence.
Scheduled for 10 October and held under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the event will see 71 traditional dhows compete across a 25-nautical-mile course from Al Hamriyah to Al Heera. More than 1,000 captains and sailors will participate in the prestigious competition, supported by a prize pool of approximately AED 3 million.
The race builds upon the considerable success of its inaugural edition, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to preserving the maritime legacy of the UAE’s forefathers whilst engaging contemporary audiences with these time-honoured traditions. Organised in collaboration with the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, the event represents a dynamic platform for celebrating the values of determination, patience and seamanship that define the nation’s seafaring heritage.
Complementing the main race, the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority has also unveiled the Sir Bu Nair Challenge for Government Employees, taking place from 8 to 10 October under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council. This initiative brings together teams from government entities across the emirate, with each participating organisation fielding up to two teams of six members. A dedicated prize pool of AED 70,000 has been allocated, with first place receiving AED 40,000, second place AED 20,000 and third place AED 10,000.
Salem Ali Al Ghaithi, Director of the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, emphasised the event’s cultural significance, noting that it revives an essential aspect of UAE heritage whilst transmitting traditional sailing skills and values to younger generations. Mohammed Majid Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Sports Channel, highlighted the broadcaster’s enhanced media coverage and production capabilities for this edition, extending the reach of maritime heritage to broader audiences.
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, underscored the race’s authenticity in showcasing the nation’s maritime legacy and ancestral connection to the sea. The Sharjah International Marine Sports Club has finalised comprehensive organisational and safety arrangements to accommodate the substantial scale of participation whilst maintaining the highest professional standards.
The event will be accompanied by an extensive programme of public-oriented activities designed to enhance community engagement and reinforce the race’s position as a cornerstone of Sharjah’s sporting and heritage calendar.
Source: WAM