The start will be in Al Hamriyah, and the finish at Al Heerah beach. More than 1,500 sailors and boat captains are expected for the second Sir Bu Nair Race on 10 October 2026. The 60-foot traditional dhow contest will feature 71 boats and nearly AED3 million in prize money, according to Sharjah24.
Published descriptions of the course differ. One puts it at approximately 20 nautical miles; another says around 25 nautical miles.
The Sharjah International Marine Sports Club says the race is expected to last between 1.5 and 2 hours, with the timing subject to wind and currents.
Race preparations and programme
Sharjah Broadcasting Authority is organising the event through Sharjah Sports Channel, alongside the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club. The club says its organisational, technical and logistical preparations are complete. Safety arrangements are planned for the large field.
A large field. The race is part of a programme at Al Heerah beach from 8 to 10 October.
Authority director Salem Ali Al Ghaithi said the first edition drew wide participation. He said the new race continues efforts to preserve traditional sailing skills and pass the UAE's maritime heritage to younger generations.
Sharjah24 reported that the nearly AED3 million prize fund for the main race is intended to be distributed among all participating dhows.
Sharjah Sports Channel plans expanded coverage. It will use its production resources to bring the race and its atmosphere to a wider audience. Public activities will also run alongside the contest.
Government teams take on a separate challenge
A separate Sir Bu Nair Challenge for Sharjah government employees will run from 8 to 10 October. It offers AED70,000 in prizes. Each participating entity may register up to two teams, with six employees in each. Registration closes at the end of 4 October 2026.
The event is part of a wider UAE programme of traditional marine racing. One example is the Shindagha dhow race, which also centres on sailing heritage and competition.
Sharjah's programme pairs the dhow race with a team challenge for government employees. The two events bring competition and workplace participation into the same programme. Traditional sailing stays in view.
