Abu Dhabi: The sixth edition of the Historic Dalma Race Festival continues its activities with 15 competitions and various activities.

The activities and competitions of the sixth edition of the festival are organised by the Cultural Programmes and Heritage Festivals Committee - Abu Dhabi; Abu Dhabi Sports Council; Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club and Emirates Heritage Club on Delma Island.

The edition features a number of marine, beach, heritage and modern sports competitions. Among these races is the Historic Dalma Sailing Race (60-foot class), a Traditional Rowing Race, a Stand Up Paddling Race, a shaari fishing contest, a cycling race, beach soccer and beach volleyball tournaments, a swimming race, a running race, in addition to a number of heritage competitions.

The Dalma shaari fishing contest will continue until next Sunday, as part of the daily activities of the festival.

Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Coordinator of shaari fishing contest, praised the great commitment of the contestants to the regulations and instructions of the tournament, which are consistent with the festival’s objectives to preserve the traditional competitions and reflects the UAE’s maritime heritage.

He stressed that the Organising Committee allocated valuable financial prizes for the contestants, amounting to AED150,000 to be distributed among 50 winners.

The Historic Dalma Festival aims to activate and revive the local marine heritage, preserve the national identity, safeguard the Emirati heritage, and introduce the public, including citizens, residents and tourists, to the importance of the marine heritage and the heritage of the Emirati islands. It also seeks to encourage the local island community, support productive families, revitalize the local market of the island, and consolidate the festival's stature as a new tourist and sports destination.

Apart from Dalma Island, the event is also a great opportunity to explore the many other beautiful islands in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.

Abu Dhabi has been a regular host of various events and activities that showcase the rich culture and heritage of the UAE, drawing tourists from around the world to experience the local customs and traditions.