5th Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship Set to Commence from April 11
Al Dhafra, The Gulf Observer: Under the esteemed patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the final leg of the highly anticipated 5th Al Dhafra Grand Kingfish Championship for both men and women is poised to unfold from April 11 to 13.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, this prestigious competition will unfold against the picturesque shores of Al Mugheirah City in Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi, showcasing the rich maritime heritage and coastal beauty of the region.
The championship is an integral component of Abu Dhabi’s kingfish fishing season, meticulously designed to regulate fishing practices in alignment with national laws, curb overfishing, honor traditional heritage competitions that echo the UAE’s sea legacy, reinvigorate local maritime customs, and highlight the enchanting coastal allure of Al Dhafra. Moreover, the tournament aims to cultivate enthusiasm for traditional fishing, elevate the profile of fishing as a leisure pursuit, foster healthy competition among participants, promote widespread participation, and establish the championship as a seasonal hallmark.
A total of 20 prizes will be bestowed upon the champions across the men’s and women’s categories, with 10 prizes allocated to each. Notably, the first-place winners in each category will receive AED 120,000, followed by AED 80,000 for the second-place winners, and AED 60,000 for the third-place winners, alongside additional awards distributed among other finalists.
In an exciting development for the fifth edition, the competition introduces the esteemed “Champion of the Season” accolade, which recognizes outstanding performance across the three stages – Al-Sila’, Al Mugheirah, and the Al Dhafra finale. The male recipient of this coveted title will be awarded a Nissan Patrol, while the female winner will receive a Rabdan car, with points allocated based on rankings from first to thirtieth place as per a designated scoring system.
To ensure fair play, the organizing committee has outlined specific guidelines, permitting trolling as the sole fishing method employing hooks and a winch, while strictly prohibiting the use of nets, spearguns, or any other means.
Participation in the championship is open to citizens, residents, and visitors alike, enabling competitors to fish in designated areas across the country where fishing is permitted.
Prospective participants are encouraged to register via the competition website at kingfish.aldhafrafestival.com, adhering to all requisite security and safety measures in accordance with national regulations.
Competitors are further mandated to install the security and safety device (ePassport) on their boats and record video documentation of their catch, with the minimum weight stipulation set at 15kg for men and 8kg for women. Additional instructions and updates pertaining to the competition can be accessed via the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority’s social media platform Turathuna.
