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Stage set for Al Gharbia Watersports Festival

Under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region, final preparations are underway for the 2^nd Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, which will be held in Mirfa, Al Gharbia from April 22 to May 1, a press release said.

The festival, in its second year, is initiated by the Western Region Development Council (WRDC), and organised by Abu Dhabi Motors Club.

Excitement is already building among competitors and visitors in anticipation for the opening ceremony of the 2^nd annual Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, scheduled for Thursday evening. In addition to the opening ceremony across the beach, competitions and activities will be held throughout the 10 day festival, which include an international kiteboarding championship, surf ski kayak race, traditional and modern sailboat races, beach volleyball and beach football. The festival will also mark the start of Al Gharbia’s seco^nd photography competition and the launch of a new video contest.

The festival, held on Mirfa’s public beach - a mere 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport - offers visitors night camping activities accompanied with live music and a traditional night market or ‘souk’ for eager shoppers. Also, for those interested in learning more about kiteboarding or kayaking, the festival will have professional trainers offering free training sessions on-ground during weekdays.

Mohamed Hamad bin Azzan Al Mazrouei, Director General of WRDC, said: “Since the conclusion of last years’ festival and its tremendous success following the attendance of over 50,000 visitors, we have been busy planning and preparing for the 2^nd Al Gharbia Watersports Festival. This year, the festival is set to be bigger and better due to the ongoing support and encouragement of our great leadership.”

He continued: “Through these types of initiatives, we at WRDC are working hand in hand with our strategic partners to foster the role of social, cultural and sporting activities among residents of Al Gharbia and to promote the region as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country.”

The festival has managed to gain massive support and assistance from the Western Region Municipality, the Critical National Infrastructure Authority, Abu Dhabi Culture and Heritage Authority, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, The Western Region Police, The Western Region Civil Defense Department, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company and the Abu Dhabi Media Company. “It is a great pleasure to work in partnership and receive the support and backing of these top organisations. Their expertise is of significant importance for the success of the festival and we are delighted to call them our partners,” concluded Al Mazrouei.

The Festival Manager, Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, commented: “With the festival’s launch date fast approaching, we have kicked off an intensive advertising and marketing drive through various types of media. Signs and banners have been distributed and erected to raise high levels of awareness about the festival.

“We encourage and welcome all nationals, residents and visitors to come and participate in the festival’s many activities.”