Dhow in Dubai
Discover the true beauty of Dubai while aboard a traditionally decorated wooden dhow, as it sails along the Dubai creek under the moonlight. The major Dubai landmarks shine through the moonlit sky as the wooden vessel slips silently across the creek. The past and present architecture of the area is brought to its full beauty during this time, including the National Bank of Dubai, Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Sheikh Saeed’s house, and the Heritage Village. This unforgettable romantic evening cruise includes a buffet dinner of either continental or oriental cuisine, along with soft drinks, traditional coffee, and mineral water. The tour also normally contains various sorts of entertainment and traditional Arabic background music.
In Dubai, on the shores of the creek, one can still see dhows loading cargo for destinations in Africa, Iran, Pakistan and India much as they did several hundred years ago.
A larger dhow may have a crew of approximately thirty while smaller dhow have crews typically ranging around twelve.
There are four types of dhow:-
- Ghanjah - a large vessel with a curved stem and a sloping, ornately carved transom.
- Baghlah - the traditional deep-sea dhow
- Battil - featured long stems topped by large, club-shaped stem heads
- Badan - a smaller vessel requiring a shallow draught
In Dubai, dhow races are a common feature on government holidays, especially 2nd December, the National Day of United Arab Emirates. Regarded as one of the most spectacular water sports in Dubai, dhow racing is witnessed by innumerable enthusiasts.
As has been the age-old tradition in Dubai’s culture, the hulls of these dhows are varnished in teakwood. White sails made of canvas balloon up in the air and can be seen from a distance. Dhow racing in Dubai is usually held in three categories - 60 feet, 43 feet and 22 feet.
In Dubai, dhow races are held throughout the winter season, as the waters of the Gulf are seemingly safe and adept for these races. The typical racing spot is the coast of Mina Seyahi.
Most of the dhow races in Dubai are scheduled after 2 pm on a Thursday or Friday, making it feasible for both racers and spectators.
