For the sailors, taking part is their way of paying tribute to their heritage - Al-Gaffal refers to the return of fishermen to Dubai's coasts after journeying out to sea. Photo: AFP
Under a blazing sun, far from the skyscrapers and SUVs of modern Dubai, hundreds of enthusiasts recently took to Gulf waters in traditional wooden vessels, keen to preserve an ancient heritage.
Around Sir Bu Nair, a teardrop-shaped island roughly 100km (60 miles) from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, two of seven emirates that make up the UAE, 118 teams raced dhows, the sailboats that have plied the Arabian peninsula's waters for centuries.
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Al-Ghaffal dhow race
For the sailors, taking part is their way of paying tribute to their heritage - Al-Gaffal refers to the return of fishermen to Dubai's coasts after journeying out to sea. Photo: AFP
Sailors pass by an oil tanker as they participate in the annual long-distance dhow sailing race, known as Al-Gaffal, near Sir Abu Nuair island towards the Gulf emirate of Dubai on June 4. Photo: AFP
Preserving heritage is vital for the organisers of Al-Gaffal and they have sought to set an example with the competing sailboats, which are not fitted with engines. Photo: AFP
Around Sir Bu Nair, a teardrop-shaped island roughly 100km away from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, 118 teams are racing dhows, the sailboats that have plied waters around the Arabian peninsula for centuries. Photo: AFP
The Al-Gaffal dhow race is a gruelling annual tournament that stretches from early morning to early afternoon. Photo: AFP
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