Al Sila Marine Festival

The Al Sila Maritime Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafrah Region, is an annual event organized on the shores of the city of Sila. The festival features a wide range of maritime, heritage, and sports competitions, such as traditional dhow sailing races, bawaneesh races (traditional wooden boats), fishing with rods, and bicycle races. Additionally, there are beach activities like football and beach volleyball. The festival also includes a popular market showcasing traditional products and local foods, along with cultural and artistic performances. The main objectives of the festival are to preserve the UAE’s maritime heritage, promote tourism and economic development in the Al Dhafrah Region, and pass down Emirati values and traditions to future generations.