Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (WAM)
The Abu Dhabi Nokhatha Programme has launched its summer edition, welcoming 110 male and female students for training in traditional sailing, dhow navigation and Emirati maritime customs.
Supervised by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club and organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Academy, the programme runs from July 13 to August 20.
The initiative seeks to deepen young people's connection with the UAE's maritime heritage and prepare a new generation of nokhathas (captains) to carry forward the knowledge and traditions of their forefathers.
The programme is supported by Abu Dhabi Maritime, the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and Sarh Group.
This year's programme will take place across Abu Dhabi, Al Mirfa and Dalma Island, allowing more students to take part in a curriculum that combines classroom instruction with practical maritime training.
Experienced instructors and maritime experts will introduce participants to the fundamentals of traditional sailing, dhow handling and marine navigation, while helping them develop core seamanship skills in a specialised training setting.
The programme also focuses on identifying and nurturing promising talent in both traditional and modern marine sports, preparing participants to take part in the championships and events organised by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club throughout the year.
The initiative builds on the success of previous editions, which attracted strong participation from the targeted age groups and established the programme as one of Abu Dhabi's leading summer initiatives dedicated to marine sports and maritime heritage.
It also reflects the shared commitment of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Academy and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council to investing in young talent, ensuring the sustainability of the UAE's traditional marine sports, and passing this heritage on to future generations through an engaging educational and practical experience.
