The third annual Khorfakkan Marine Festival commenced today in the United Arab Emirates,drawing competitors from ten nations for a ten-day event celebrating the region’s seafaring traditions [[1]]. Under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the festival aims to bolster khorfakkan’s tourism sector while honoring its maritime heritage. Alongside sporting competitions in dhow sailing,water rescue,and fishing,festival organizers unveiled a new water safety initiative for the Emirate of Sharjah,highlighting a commitment to coastal preparedness.
Khorfakkan, United Arab Emirates – The third annual Khorfakkan Marine Festival officially opened today, December 27, under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. The event, a celebration of maritime heritage, sport, and culture, draws participants from ten nations and runs through January 4.
The festival, organized by the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club and Al Sharqiya from Kalba, features competitors from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Zanzibar, India, Iran, and Iraq. The diverse international participation underscores the growing prominence of the festival as a regional and international event.
Organizers say the festival aims to highlight the UAE’s rich maritime traditions and showcase the popular heritage connected to the sea. It also seeks to strengthen Khorfakkan’s position as a distinctive tourist destination through a comprehensive program of marine sports competitions, traditional displays, and entertainment for all ages.
Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Head of the Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan, inaugurated the festival. Attendees at the opening ceremony included Khalid Jasim Al Madfa, Chairman of the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club; Ali Salem Al Madfa, Head of the Sharjah International Airport Authority; Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Nuqbi, Head of the Khorfakkan Municipal Council; and Mohammed Obaid Al Hassan, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Sports Council.
“The festival has become a leading annual platform for celebrating our authentic maritime legacy and enhancing the position of Khorfakkan as a distinguished tourist and marine destination,” said Khalid Jasim Al Madfa. “The wide international participation reflects the festival’s growing success and the confidence it enjoys at both regional and international levels.”
During the opening ceremony, officials also announced the launch of a water rescue program within the Emirate of Sharjah, a move intended to improve marine safety and preparedness along the emirate’s coastlines. The initiative underscores a commitment to bolstering safety measures for both residents and visitors.
The festival’s sporting events include competitions in traditional dhow sailing, water rescue, and fishing. Daily activities are planned throughout the event, and organizers anticipate a large turnout of visitors and tourists, building on the success of the previous two years.
