Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the second phase of the 5th Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship will take place until 14 January 2024 in Al Mirfa, Al Dhafra Region.
A total of 20 prizes, valued at AED680,000, have been allocated for the second phase of the competition, comprising 10 prizes for the men's category and 10 prizes for the women's category. The first place winner in each category will be awarded AED80,000, the second place winner will receive AED60,000, and the third place winner will receive AED50,000. The cash prizes will be awarded to all participants who secure a position in the top ten in both categories.
The fifth edition of the Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship will introduce the Champion of the Season award, determined by a points system across the three stages – Al Sila, Al Mugheirah and Al Dhafra finale. The male category winner of the Champion of the Season title will be rewarded with a Nissan Patrol, while the female category winner will receive a Rabdan car. Points are calculated from 1st to 30th place using a specific chart.
The organising committee has stipulated that the exclusive fishing method allowed in the championship is trolling, utilising hooks and a winch. The use of nets of any kind, spearguns, or any other means is strictly prohibited.
The championship's terms mandate minimum fish weight of 15kg for men and 8kg for women. The competition is open to UAE Nationals, residents and visitors, permitting participants to fish in all designated areas of the country’s strict compliance with safety and security measures as outlined by UAE laws, including installing the security and safety device (e-Passport) and video recording. Those instructions that can be found on the social media platforms (turathuna) of the Committee for the Management of Festivals and Cultural and Heritage Programs - Abu Dhabi.
The competition is an integral part of the kingfish fishing season in Abu Dhabi, aligning with the goal of protecting marine life from overfishing in accordance with national laws. It also aims to regulate kingfish fishing, uphold traditional heritage competitions that reflect the UAE's maritime heritage, revive local maritime traditions, familiarise the public with the coastlines and islands of the Al Dhafra Region and provide an opportunity for amateurs to engage in traditional fishing. The competition will also promote and revitalise fishing as a recreational pursuit, foster a spirit of healthy competition among enthusiasts, encourage widespread participation and establish the competition as a seasonal highlight for fishing enthusiasts. and make the competition seasonal for fishing enthusiasts.
The championship is structured into three phases, with a total of 60 prizes allocated across the men's and women's categories, amounting to a total value exceeding AED2 million. The first stage of the Al Sila Championship took place from December 7-9 2023, offering 20 prizes valued at AED460,000. The second stage Al Mugheirah Championship has 20 prizes with a total value of AED680,000. The upcoming third and final stage will feature 20 prizes worth AED920,000.
