Dhow racing in Dubai - in pictures

  • Sailors take part in the annual long-distance dhow race known as Al Gaffal. Nearly 120 boats took part in the race, which started from Sur Bu Naair Island and ended at the finish line off the coast of Dubai, passing by Moon Island. AFP
    Sailors take part in the annual long-distance dhow race known as Al Gaffal. Nearly 120 boats took part in the race, which started from Sur Bu Naair Island and ended at the finish line off the coast of Dubai, passing by Moon Island. AFP
  • Al Gaffal has been held since 1991 and honours the UAE's maritime heritage. AFP
    Al Gaffal has been held since 1991 and honours the UAE's maritime heritage. AFP
  • Dhows race as part of Al Gaffal long-distance contest. AFP
    Dhows race as part of Al Gaffal long-distance contest. AFP
  • The Hasheem team celebrate after crossing the finish line in Dubai. AFP
    The Hasheem team celebrate after crossing the finish line in Dubai. AFP
  • Sailors in action during a training session on the eve of Al Gaffal, off the coast of Dubai. EPA
    Sailors in action during a training session on the eve of Al Gaffal, off the coast of Dubai. EPA
  • Dhows compete in Al Gaffal, the biggest traditional sailing race in the world. EPA
    Dhows compete in Al Gaffal, the biggest traditional sailing race in the world. EPA
  • Crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate on their way to win Al Gaffal race in Dubai. Almost 120 boats took part in the race, which starts from Sur Bu Naair Island and ends at the finish line at the coast of Dubai, passing by Moon Island. EPA
    Crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate on their way to win Al Gaffal race in Dubai. Almost 120 boats took part in the race, which starts from Sur Bu Naair Island and ends at the finish line at the coast of Dubai, passing by Moon Island. EPA
  • Al Gaffal is the biggest traditional sailing race in the world. EPA
    Al Gaffal is the biggest traditional sailing race in the world. EPA
  • Sailors participate in the annual long-distance dhow sailing race known Al Gaffal. AFP
    Sailors participate in the annual long-distance dhow sailing race known Al Gaffal. AFP
  • Dhows race to the finish line in Dubai. AFP
    Dhows race to the finish line in Dubai. AFP
  • A line of dhows takes part in the race. AFP
    A line of dhows takes part in the race. AFP
  • Sailors pass by the 'Maersk Pearl' tanker during the race. AFP
    Sailors pass by the 'Maersk Pearl' tanker during the race. AFP
  • The crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate after winning Al Gaffal race outside Dubai. EPA
    The crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate after winning Al Gaffal race outside Dubai. EPA
  • The victorious crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate their win. EPA
    The victorious crew of the Hasheem dhow celebrate their win. EPA