Dubai International Marine Club unveils action-packed new season

The Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has announced the approval of its 2025–2026 sports season programme, featuring a rich lineup of local and international competitions, carnivals, and diverse marine festivals aimed at attracting the widest possible audience.

The club will also host several major international sporting events along Dubai’s picturesque beaches.

Ahmed Saeed Bin Meshar, Chairman of the DIMC Board of Directors, extended his deepest gratitude to the wise leadership of the UAE, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council, for their unlimited support.

He emphasized that this unwavering support is the foundation of the remarkable growth marine sports enjoy today.

He added: “With the launch of the new season, we look forward to continuing our efforts in the sustainable development of marine sports, guided by the DIMC Strategic Plan 2025–2027. This plan marks the starting point toward a bright future for marine sports, fostering innovative solutions to reinforce the Club’s position in strengthening the UAE and Dubai’s status as premier sporting and tourism destinations.

“Our mission is to encourage all segments of society to practice both heritage-based and modern marine sports, nurturing their skills to achieve excellence. For this reason, we are keen to organize events in multiple areas of Dubai, including Jumeirah beaches, the Dubai Islands, and the Hatta region.”

The chairman also praised the efforts of board members and the club’s administrative teams in pursuing further success.

He noted: “Since its establishment in 1988, DIMC has accumulated vast experience in hosting major marine sporting events. The Club continues to enhance Dubai and the UAE’s historic ties with the sea, preserve cultural heritage, and showcase it with pride in annual competitions alongside modern marine sports. We also work closely with organizations to host a wide array of sporting and community events.”

The season opens with the Dubai Local 22ft Dhow Sailing Race on September 27 at Jumeirah Beach. Momentum continues in October with three dhow sailing races across the 43ft and 60ft categories, setting the stage for an exciting calendar of traditional competitions.

In November, attention turns to several major events, including the second round of the 60ft Dhow Sailing Race, a series of Rowing Championships, the prestigious 29th Al Maktoum Rowing Cup, and the UAE Sailing and Windsurfing Championships.

The following month, December, is highlighted by international spectacles: the FINA World Swimming Championships finals from December 1–7, followed by the Dubai round of the XCAT World Powerboat Championship from December 12–14.

As the new year begins, January 2026 brings a diverse programme featuring 22ft dhow sailing, stand-up paddling and kayaking races, jet ski competitions, kayak fishing, and the Dubai Foil Championship. February 2026 follows with the Dubai Fishing Tournament from February 4–7 and the second round of Jet Ski races from February 13–15.

The action continues in March 2026 with the second rounds of the UAE Sailing Championship, Kayak Fishing, Stand-up Paddling and Kayak Race, and the Dubai Foil Championship. In April 2026, the season features the second round of the Dubai Fishing Tournament from April 8–11 alongside the Dubai International Boat Show, held from April 8–12 at Dubai Harbour.

The season concludes with a signature event: the 35th Al Gaffal Traditional 60ft Dhow Sailing Race, taking place between April 24 and May 17, 2026, a fitting finale to a dynamic and diverse sporting calendar.