2022
The first Abu Dhabi Dragon Boat Festival was held on the 15th and 16th of October, 2022, at the Anantara Hotel & Resorts, Eastern Mangrove, in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This inaugural event was the first of its kind in the capital and attracted over 500 participants from corporations, local clubs, and recreational teams. The two-day festival featured both small and standard boats, with competing teams competing in both short and long-distance races.
On the first day of the festival, the small boat races took place, with teams competing in 200- and 500-meter races. The excitement and energy were high as teams paddled their way to the finish line, with the sound of drums and cheers from the spectators filling the air. The atmosphere was electric as teams raced against each other, with many of the races being closely contested.
On the second day, the standard boat races were held, with teams competing in 2000- and 5000-meter races. The races were even more intense and challenging, with teams pushing themselves to the limit to secure a spot on the podium. As teams worked together to overcome the challenges of the long-distance races, the festival was a showcase of teamwork and endurance.
In the end, Team Dubai Classics emerged as the overall winners of the festival, taking home the first-place trophy. The festival was a great success and was enjoyed by all participants, visitors, and locals. It served as a great showcase of the culture and history of dragon boat racing, and it is expected that the event will become a regular fixture on the Abu Dhabi calendar.
