Abu Dhabi: The third Al Sila’ Marine Festival will take place on December 6 to 10, 2023 at the beach of Al Sila’ City in the Al Dhafra Region.
The festival will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region. It is co-organized by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, and Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee – Abu Dhabi, in cooperation with Emirates Heritage Club.
The festival features a range of traditional and modern marine competitions, along with beach and sports races. These include events such as the Al Sila’ 43-ft Dhow Race, the Barakah Traditional Sailboat Race, fly-fishing contests, Carrom and Dominoes competitions, a cycling race, beach volleyball, beach soccer, as well as various heritage competitions and traditional games.
Additionally, the festival features a traditional market where a wide array of shops run by families and emerging projects offer traditional products and a variety of dishes from Emirati cuisine. The event showcases pavilions representing sponsoring and participating organizations, a Noukhada Majlis, cultural performances, and activities for visitors.
Al Sila’ Marine Festival aims to preserve the maritime and desert heritage of the UAE, showcasing Emirati heritage, customs, and traditions and passing them down to younger generations. Furthermore, it seeks to promote UAE coastal cities, islands, and marine festivals, support and encourage engagement in marine and heritage sports, and drive tourism and economic development in the Al Dhafra Region.
This year’s edition will also host the first round of the Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship for Men and Women, known as Al Mughirah Championship, which will be held from December 7 to 10, 2023.