Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the third Al Sila' Marine Festival will be held from 6-10 December 2023. Co-organised by the Cultural Programs and Heritage Festivals Committee - Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, in cooperation with Emirates Heritage Club, the festival is set to take place on the beach of Al Sila' City in Al Dhafra Region.
The festival features a range of traditional and modern marine competitions, along with beach and sports races. These include events such as the Al Sila' 43-ft Dhow Race, the Barakah Traditional Sailboat Race, fly-fishing contests, Carrom and Dominoes competitions, a cycling race, beach volleyball, beach soccer, as well as various heritage competitions and traditional games.
This year’s edition will also host the first round of Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship for Men and Women, known as Al Mughirah Championship, which will be held from 7-10 December 2023.
The festival also features a traditional market where a wide array of shops run by families and emerging projects offer traditional products and a variety of dishes from Emirati cuisine. The event showcases pavilions representing sponsoring and participating organisations, a Noukhada Majlis, cultural performances and activities for visitors.
Al Sila' Marine Festival aims to preserve the maritime and desert heritage of the UAE, showcasing Emirati heritage, customs and traditions and pass them down to younger generations. It also seeks to promote UAE coastal cities, islands and marine festivals, support and encourage engagement in marine and heritage sports, and drive tourism and economic development in Al Dhafra Region.
