Today's Edition
RAJEEV CHERIAN (AL SILA, AL DHAFRA REGION)
The coastal traditions of Abu Dhabi came to life at Al Sila beach as the fourth Al Sila Marine Festival draws vibrant community engagement with the aroma of Arabic coffee blending with the fragrance of oud and the sea breeze offering a fitting backdrop on the shores of Al Dhafra.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the marine festival commenced on Wednesday and runs until Sunday at Al Sila beach, some 350km west of Abu Dhabi.
The beach spectacle features a series of marine competitions, including dhow racing and fly-fishing, in addition to a cycling race, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and cultural and heritage activities.
The venue was lined with stalls, selling local food and craft items.
The event has offerings for all ages: A quiz competition was in full swing on stage where children eagerly answered questions. In one instance, a child quickly named all the emirates of the UAE.
Men gathered in majlis tents engaged in conversations while sipping Arabic coffee. In another part of the venue, women showcased local handicrafts and how they were made.
The play areas were busy with some children enjoying a ride on the birghtly lit merry-go-round while others tried their hand at martial arts.
Among the visitors was Marwan Ghaith Al Hammadi from Al Dhafra Region, who said he enjoyed a pleasant evening at the venue with his friends.
For Al Hammadi, the highlight of the event was the dhow racing and fishing contest.
“The event provided many opportunities for families to showcase their products. It also offered children a wonderful time to engage in games and learn about their rich heritage,” Al Hammadi told Aletihad.
Another visitor, Majid Humaid Al Mansoori from Al Dhafra Region, said the fourth edition of the marine festival witnessed impressive turnout and offered an ideal setting to celebrate Abu Dhabi’s maritime heritage. The main competitions are coming to a close, and the event reaches its finale on Sunday, he added.
The five-day maritime festival is organised by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club.
