Am image synonymous with Dubai’s waters, indeed the waters around much of the Gulf is the dhow and one of the biggest and longest standing events on Dubai’s watersports calendar is the Al Gaffal, a long distance race featuring 60-foot sailing dhows. This year’s race is set for May 28, starting at Sur Bu Na’air Island at 7am and finishing at Mina Sevahi.

Al Gaffal which literally translates as ‘The Return’ was originally conceived by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his family out of a concern that the traditional dhow culture was dying out. Traditionally the dhow was a fishing boat used for pearl trade and was a strong symbol of the past. The Sheikh called for the event in recognition of the history and importance of the boats as well as to commemorate the pearl divers integral to the early trading port of Dubai.

The race started at the small uninhabited island of Sur Bu Na’air, 50 nautical miles west of the UAE and the island where the pearl fleets used to stop on their way home. The crews were made up of free divers and sailors. The first race took place on May 23 1991 and was organized by the military and Dubai International Marine Club. Fifty three dhows took part, a mix of 43ft and 60ft boats in various states of repair.

Today the dhows are all in pristine condition with gleaming hulls and sails but still adhere to the traditional rule of the past. The race marks the last race in the watersports season at the Dubai International Marine Club. There are three classes or sizes of the traditional dhow, 22ft, 43ft and 60ft.

The language, songs and chants of the sea have been kept alive and are passed down to the younger sailors keen to follow in their fathers’ and grandfathers’ footsteps and compete in the races. It’s an event not to be missed.

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