Oman Set to Host World Sailing Inclusion Championships 2025

Post by : Mara Rahim

Oman is gearing up to host the 2025 World Sailing Inclusion Championships, an unprecedented international competition for athletes of diverse abilities. The event spans five days and features four recognized boat categories, as well as an Inclusive Development Programme (IDP) put together by World Sailing. This initiative is designed to elevate the skills of coaches, sailors, and race officials, while supporting nations in building inclusive para sailing frameworks.

Taking place from 30 November to 2 December, the IDP will gather participants from various continents for an array of workshops, training sessions, and collaborative activities. This programme represents the fruitful partnership between World Sailing and Oman Sail, aimed at enhancing technical skills and promoting inclusive sailing globally.

Feras Asqul, Project Manager at Oman Sail and head of operations for the event, confirmed that preparations are on track and entering their final phase. He highlighted the extensive work done to ensure that all facilities are ready, which includes outfitting the marina with boats for athletes and coaches, establishing launching sites, measurement areas, and technical inspection zones. Accessibility has been prioritized so athletes with varying disabilities can navigate the venue safely.

“We aim to create a secure environment for training and racing that meets international para sailing standards,” stated Feras. “Hosting this championship’s inaugural edition is a significant responsibility and a chance to showcase Oman’s organizational prowess. We are collaborating with all our partners to ensure a world-class event that lives up to its global importance.”

The championship will showcase four boat categories: Hansa 303 (single-person), ILCA 6, RS Venture Connect, and the Far East boat for visually impaired sailors. Oman will field seven sailors from the SailFree programme, operated in collaboration with bp Oman and the Oman Paralympic Association. In the RS Venture race, teams of Hassan Al Lawati & Zaher Al Atbi and Adel Al Siyabi & Al Ghaliya Al Jabri will face off against 28 other teams. Meanwhile, in the One-Person Inclusive class with Hansa 303 boats, Omani athletes Ali Al Ghusaini, Sultan Al Wahaibi, and Malik Al Qurtubi will compete alongside 35 international participants.

This championship also serves as a platform for several nations to make their debut in inclusive sailing, underscoring the sport's global expansion. Competitors from Trinidad & Tobago, India, Saudi Arabia, and Korea will participate in the One-Person Inclusive class, while teams from Iraq, Chinese Taipei, and Uruguay will take part in the Two-Person Hansa 303 event.

The official inauguration will occur on 3 December 2025, coinciding with the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It is being organized by Oman Sail and the Oman Maritime Sports Committee, with support from World Sailing and global partners such as Musto and Kuehne+Nagel. Strategic collaborators include the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, Experience Oman, and the Al Batinah South Governorate. Bronze partners involve Barceló Mussanah Resort, OXY Oman, Visit Oman, Tanuf, and Mazoon Dairy.

Oman’s World Sailing Inclusion Championships aspire to motivate athletes globally, champion inclusivity in sports, and bolster Oman’s reputation as a premier destination for international competitions. Through this event, athletes, coaches, and officials will acquire valuable experience while showcasing their talents in a welcoming and accessible atmosphere.