Set Sail for Glory: Khorfakkan Marine Fest. Unveils Rich Heritage

Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, highlighted the uniqueness and significance of the festival's concept, especially for the current generation unfamiliar with their maritime history. The aim is to establish a connection with the maritime legacy, history, and sacrifices of their ancestors, leaving an imprint for the future. Al Midfa expressed appreciation for the team's efforts and the strategic partners for their collaboration and support in the success of the inaugural festival.

Ahmed Al Housani, Executive Director of the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, disclosed that the festival's activities will continue until December 10, 2023. The festival encompasses various maritime and heritage competitions, along with an extensive programme of events and contests. The first edition of the Khorfakkan Marine Festival incorporates the Sharjah International Waterbike Championship final round, the UAE Flyboard Championship, fishing competition, Shoush boats competition, the UAE Speed Boats Championship in the third category, the UAE Fast Wooden Boats Championship "Shawahif," the Best Heritage Costume competition, and the Best Photo competition in the festival. Additionally, there are daily heritage shows.

Al Housani emphasised that the festival features a maritime heritage village with several segments, including a section for maritime heritage-related crafts, popular heritage sessions, a stage for events and cultural activities, as well as areas for popular games and exhibitions of traditional maritime arts. Dedicated spaces for popular cuisine are also available.

He underscored that the festival provides an opportunity for visitors to familiarize themselves with maritime traditions and customs, heighten awareness about maritime practices and heritage. Al Housani noted that the festival welcomes visitors daily for ten days, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Khorfakkan Beach.