Khorfakkan Marine Festival attracts 85,000 visitors

The festival brought together participants from ten countries, offering a wide-ranging programme of marine, heritage and sporting activities that combined family entertainment with competitive events and celebrations of maritime culture.

The organisers said the program included a series of competitions and activities, notably dhow sailing championships, Al Birekha rescue competitions, the Khorfakkan underwater photography contest, fishing events, boat races, and other competitive marine activities, as well as modern water sports shows and educational workshops for children.

Qatar’s pavilion was awarded the prize for “Best Participation” in recognition of its distinctive content and innovative presentations. The Sultanate of Oman took part as a guest of honour, delivering traditional maritime performances that highlighted Omani heritage and strengthened cultural ties between the two countries.

Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Board of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, said the strong public turnout and broad international participation reflected the festival’s growing stature. He noted that efforts would continue to support marine sports, preserve the UAE’s maritime heritage, promote marine tourism across the Emirate of Sharjah, and reinforce Khorfakkan’s position as a leading marine destination.