The Al Yasat Festival will take place from 15-19 November 2023 on the beach of Al Sila city in Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi.
The festival, which is organized by the Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee - Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club in cooperation with Emirates Heritage Club, features various traditional and modern marine races (60ft class sailing dhows, 22ft sailing dhows and modern sailing regatta), various beach and sports races, as well as a number of heritage events and competitions in the festival's Heritage Village.
The festival aims to enhance the role of traditional sailing sports within society, celebrating them as a component of UAE's cultural heritage. The festival also aims to promote UAE coastal cities, islands and marine festivals, foster engagement in both traditional and contemporary marine sports, while actively facilitating their geographical expansion. The event also seeks to highlight and pass down Emirati heritage and social etiquette, known as Sana'a, to future generations and consolidate Al Dhafra Region as a destination for culture, heritage, tourism and sports.
The festival's Heritage Village will be the venue for a wide range of cultural and heritage competitions, along with engaging and appealing events suitable for various age groups. It will also comprise diverse shops that showcase traditional Emirati marine and desert heritage products. The village will also bring to life aspects of the traditional coastal living, providing visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the ocean's depths and embark on a tour of the coasts and islands in Al Dhafra Region.
