Al Sila Marine Festival 2025 to Showcase Maritime Traditions and Award AED6.4m

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The fifth Al Sila Marine Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, will take place from 7 to 16 November at the Al Sila Waterfront. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, the festival will foreground the UAE’s maritime legacy.

The event also reflects the ongoing support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, for programmes that preserve Emirati traditions and strengthen links between generations.

This edition emphasizes Al Sana’—traditional customs and etiquette—while underscoring the cultural and economic importance of the country’s coastal towns and islands. By reviving traditional marine sports and heritage activities, organisers aim to support tourism and stimulate economic activity across the Al Dhafra Region.

Across two weeks, weekends will host 64 competitions spanning marine races, beach sports and heritage contests, delivering family-oriented programming. Total prize money surpasses AED6.4 million, encouraging broad community participation.

Key races include the Al Sila Dhow Sailing Race (43-ft), which offers prizes in excess of AED3 million; the Barakah Bawanish Sailing Race with over AED400,000 in awards; and the Al Sila Traditional Rowing Race (40-ft) carrying AED2.4 million in rewards.

The wider programme features the Sheri Fishing Championship, Falconry Championship, cycling events, and beach football and volleyball. Social competitions such as domino and carrom tournaments for men and women, alongside traditional games and running races, complete the lineup.

Complementing the sporting calendar, a traditional souq operated by productive families and small enterprises will present handcrafted goods, authentic Emirati cuisine and local art performances. Visitors will find children’s play zones, daily stage shows and interactive activities for all ages.

Aligned with the UAE Year of Community, the Al Sila Marine Festival reaffirms national efforts to safeguard cultural heritage while fostering social cohesion, identity and pride.