Thrill of the race at Dubai Dragon Boat Festival

Families and watersports fans alike will be flocking to Festival Marina in Dubai for this weekend’s Dragon Boat Festival.

Dubai Dragon Boat Festival is due to get underway today (April 8th) as the UAE city welcomes back this popular watersports event for its fourth year in a row.

Festival Marina in Dubai Festival City will play host to two days of thrilling races and a host of onshore entertainment.

Thousands of competitors and spectators are expected to attend the action-packed weekend, which is hosted by the UAE Dragon Boat Association, Siren Events, UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, and Festival Centre.

Jason Mackenzie, technical director of the UAE Dragon Boat Association, said that the watersport is all about team spirit, sportsmanship, strategy and technique.

“This event continues to grow in stature and the huge following it has along with the passion people have for dragon boating makes for a wonderful day out for the family,” he said.

There will be a range of activities at Festival Centre over the two-day period to create a carnival atmosphere, including food and drink stalls as well as children’s activities.

Written by Nicholas Scott