Dhow racing off Abu Dhabi's Dalma Island - in pictures

The 11 hour race was won by the Al Wasf 87 racing for the Dubai Crown Prince

Emirati competitors sail their dhows as they take part in the Dalma Sailing Festival, off the coast of Dalma island in Abu Dhabi. All photos by AFP

The race was watched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region.

The race was organised by Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club

Abu Dhabi Sports Council earmarked a record prize money of Dh25 million for the first 100 boats to cross the finishing line and five cars for the first five winners.

The 60-foot traditional sail boat race drew 116 boats and 3,000 sailors from across the emirates.

The festival ran for four days and covered 80 nautical miles.

Al Wasf 87, owned by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, won the 11-hour race.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, watched the Delma Sailing Festival, organised by the Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club.

The 60-foot traditional sail boat race drew 116 boats and 3,000 sailors from across the  country.

Abu Dhabi Sports Council earmarked a record prize money of Dh25 million and five cars for the first five winners.

The Festival ran for four days and covered 80 nautical miles.

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the historic significance and value of Delma Island for the Emirati sea legacy lovers.

Al Wasf 87, owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid , Crown Prince of Dubai, won the 11-hour race.