Dubai International Marine Club celebrates its 38th anniversary today, continuing its journey of achievements spanning more than three decades. During this time, it has solidified its position as one of the leading sports institutions specializing in marine sports at the local, regional, and international levels.
Since its official launch on 5th of May 1988, in line with the vision of the wise leadership, the esteemed club has made a significant mark on the sports sector in general and marine sports in particular. Dubai's beaches have been a hub for marine racing since the mid-1980s, which led to the establishment of the Dubai International Marine Club under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Following its founding, the club's officials laid the groundwork, establishing the rules and regulations governing the various events and activities that have firmly established its presence in the community.
Key Milestones in the Club's History
Over 38 years, the club has achieved numerous significant milestones that have marked its history, along with other significant milestones that have strengthened its role. Among the most prominent are:
Dubai's beaches have been a hub for marine racing since the early 1980s, even before the club's official establishment under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The club began laying the foundations for marine sports on a large scale, establishing the necessary rules and regulations.
- In 1988, the Dubai International Marine Club was founded on May 5th, realizing the visionary ideas of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the architect of modern Dubai.
- In 1990, it became the first Arab and African club to gain international membership from the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM).
- In 1991, under the guidance of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him, the club launched the annual Al Gaffal Long Distance Race from Sir Bu Nu’air Island to the shores of Dubai, which has become the largest and most important sailing race in the region and the world.
- In 1992, the club organized the Class 1 World Powerboat Championship, the first time it was held in the Middle East and Asia.
- In 1993, the Dubai International Marine Club headquarters was established in Dubai Marina, thanks to a generous donation from the late Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him, creating a monumental landmark.
- In 1994, an Emiri decree was issued declaring the club the government entity responsible for marine sports and appointing His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as its president.
- In 1999, the club established the Modern Sailing School and launched the first national team with a specialized program that included camps and training according to the highest standards.
- In 2008, the club launched its first international sailing team, Dubai Sea, which competed in the RC44 World Championship.
- In 2014, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a decree appointing His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Chairman of the Club.
- In 2015, the Club received three international certifications in the areas of Quality Management (ISO 9001:2008), Environmental Management (ISO 14001:2004), and Occupational Health and Safety Management (OHSAS 18001:2007).
- In 2016, specifically on September 8th, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as Ruler of Dubai, issued a decree forming the Club's Board of Directors, chaired by Dr. Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar Al Muhairi.
- In the following years, the club organized hundreds of marine races and activities across various disciplines. It is considered the leading club in the region for attracting participants from diverse nationalities, particularly in reviving Emirati maritime heritage, following in the footsteps of ancestors and future generations to prepare them with the skills and knowledge necessary for this type of racing.
- The Victory Team, under the club's auspices, also excelled, achieving a double victory last year in the Formula 1 and XCAT World Championships – an accomplishment that reflects the club's hard work and ambitious goals.
Mohammed Abdullah Harib, Executive Director of the Dubai International Marine Club, affirmed that as the club enters its 38th year, it continues to strengthen its global standing by hosting major championships, developing national talent, and supporting innovation in various marine sports, in line with Dubai's vision of leadership and sporting excellence.
He added that the club affirms its commitment to continuing its success, reflecting the unwavering support of the wise leadership. Drawing inspiration from its rich heritage, the club confidently moves towards a brighter future for marine sports in the UAE and the world. He also expressed his gratitude to the club's partners for their support, foremost among them the Government of Dubai, the Dubai Sports Council, the Dubai Police General Command, the media partner Dubai TV, and all local media outlets for their support and solidarity with the club over the decades.
