Al Gaffal boat race in Dubai 2023 - in pictures

  • Competitors train on the eve of the Al Gaffal Race, near Dubai. All photos: EPA
    Competitors train on the eve of the Al Gaffal Race, near Dubai. All photos: EPA
  • The Al Gaffal Race, featuring 60ft dhows, is the biggest traditional sailing race in the world
    The Al Gaffal Race, featuring 60ft dhows, is the biggest traditional sailing race in the world
  • The race, featuring 125 boats, starts from Sur Bu Nair Island and finishes at Burj Al Arab
    The race, featuring 125 boats, starts from Sur Bu Nair Island and finishes at Burj Al Arab
  • The race was conceived by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid and is currently under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai
    The race was conceived by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid and is currently under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai
  • Competitors cover over 50 nautical miles in the race, which took place from May 26 to May 28
    Competitors cover over 50 nautical miles in the race, which took place from May 26 to May 28
  • Organised by the Dubai International Marine Club, the annual event takes place at the end of the marine sports season
    Organised by the Dubai International Marine Club, the annual event takes place at the end of the marine sports season
  • Sheikh Hamdan says the race has made significant contributions to reviving the UAE’s marine heritage
    Sheikh Hamdan says the race has made significant contributions to reviving the UAE’s marine heritage
  • The race, which has grown in popularity over the years, celebrates the role of the sea in the society, culture and economy of the nation
    The race, which has grown in popularity over the years, celebrates the role of the sea in the society, culture and economy of the nation