Dubai: Hop on the Dubai Ferry from Dubai Marina and be part of the historic Al Ghaffal Dhow Race on Saturday.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers an opportunity for the enthusiasts to witness the race from up close through a six hour cruise from Dubai Marina to Moon Island and back.
The cruise will also include a traditional breakfast and a short stop over at the moon Island, which is 54ks off shore from Dubai Marina.
Al Ghaffal Dhow Race is an annual traditional event that symbolises the heritage of the UAE.
“People here hardly know the history and traditions of Dubai and this will be a good opportunity for people to know the life of yesteryears. Al Ghaffal means to close and this race took place every year when pearl divers headed back from their voyages to sell their treasures at the close of the season this time of the year,” explained Baha Al Qedra, Director of Marine Department at RTA’s Public Transport Agency.
As the flotilla of 100 dhows begin the race from the Sir Bu Nair island at 6am on Saturday, the Dubai Ferry will begin its cruise from Dubai Marina, catching the dhows at the Moon Island around 8:30 in the morning. The Ferry will then head back along with the dhows to Burj Al Arab, where the race will end.
“As we have only one ferry for the trip, only 100 seats will be available and the first 100 callers will get the seats,” added Al Qedra.
The race is organised by Dubai International Marine Club and has been held every year since 1991.
Around 3,000 sailors participate in the race on 100 dhows, 60 feet long and equipped with sails.
The tickets for the exclusive trip could be booked through dedicated numbers 055-6007707 or 04-3963135.
