The Emirates Heritage Club plays a significant role in preserving the heritage and traditions of the UAE.

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of HH the President and Chairman of the Emirates Heritage Club, the Mabraz Dhow Sailing Race will take place between one hundred 60-feet dhow sailing vessels on the starting line.

The wooden built of the dhows boast local tradition - but with a touch of modern technology. This is mainly due to safety reasons as traditional wooden masts are too heavy and fragile for racing purposes.

The dhow race will either follow a straight course or a gybing course to the finish line near Abu Dhabi Breakwater - each dhow will be crewed by 10 to 15 sailors.