Al Gaffal Long Distance Race is back this month

The white rafts sailing across will soon be witnessed in the Emirates. The 32nd Edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race is back with a bigger celebration. Get ready to witness traditional 60-foot sailing ships between 26 to 28 May 2023 in the Emirates.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, has approved the dates of the 32nd Al Gaffal Long Distance Race dedicated to traditional 60-feet sailing ships.

Organised annually by the Dubai International Marine Club, the event takes place at the end of the marine sports season. Sheikh Hamdan noted that the iconic annual race has made significant contributions to reviving the UAE’s marine heritage. The race, which has grown in popularity over the years, celebrates the role the sea has played in the society, culture and economy of the nation throughout its past.

Sheikh Hamdan gave the Higher Organising Committee of the event specific instructions to make sure that the competition, which will follow a 50 nautical mile route beginning on Sir Bu Nair Island, passing past Crescent Moon Island, and concluding on the coasts of Dubai, is organised flawlessly. To ensure the event’s success, Sheikh Hamdan pleaded with all parties concerned to cooperate.