Sharjah 24 – WAM: Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival Dhow Sailing Race 22FT will commence at Abu Dhabi Corniche Sunday.

The seven-mile race, which is organised by Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club, will see the participation of 40 sailing dhows run by young sailors as part of the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region.

Up to AED400,000 in financial prizes are up for grabs for the top position winners and the participants.

The 22FT Dhow racing is the base of learning for this traditional sport. It is an important first step for young sailors aged 8-12 years and constitutes an essential part of the UAE’s dhow sailing heritage.

Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club was established in 2011 to serve as the new home of modern and traditional Sailing in Abu Dhabi.