Abu Dhabi: The deadline for registration in the 11th Annual Abu Dhabi Dragon Boat Festival has been extended to September 28.
The event will be held on October 5 and 6.
Organised in partnership with Siren Events, UAE Dragon Boat and UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, the Dragon Boat Festival is an annual fixture hosted every October at Shangri-La Hotel and Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi to embrace its Asian roots while creating unforgettable moments for the residents and the visitors of the Capital.
The Qaryat Al Beri complex welcomes teams of 20 paddlers to power their boats in unison at the biggest dragon boat festival in the region.
The event will offer spectators heart-pounding action at the beachfront as competitors race the dragon boats parallel to the shore.
In addition to the spirited competition along the 1km stretch of the private beach, spectators can also enjoy cultural entertainment, music and a host of fun activities and entertainment throughout the day.
Jason Mackenzie, Dragon Boat Festival Race Director, said: “Every year, the Abu Dhabi Dragon Boat Festival held at the Shangri-La Hotel and Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri sees up to 2,000 participants. More than 20 international teams and 100 local teams have taken part in the race over the years, making it the largest dragon boat event in the region.”
Team participation includes the supply of a dragon boat and all necessary equipment as well as two 60-minute training sessions with an internationally-acclaimed training coach.
