Al Masaood Automobiles-Nissan, a leading business conglomerate in Abu Dhabi, has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club to sponsor the fifth historic Dalma Sailing Festival’s 60ft Dhow race. Set to run from May 7 – 20, 2022, the event will be held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, on the historic island of Dalma.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Ahmed Thani Murshid Al Romaithi, Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club and Managing Director and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for the Race; and H.E. Tariq Ahmed Al Masaood, Board Member of Al Masaood Group, in the presence of Majid Ateeq Al Muhairi, Vice Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of the fifth Dalma Traditional Sailing Festival, and Saeed Al Muhairi, Representative of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, at Al Masaood Automobiles headquarters – Al Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi.
This sponsorship comes as part of the efforts by Al Masaood Automobiles-Nissan to empower and support the advancement of the maritime sport, which has been an integral aspect of the culture and heritage traditions of the UAE.
H.E. Ahmed Thani Murshid Al Romaithi, Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club and Managing Director and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for the Race extended his thanks and appreciation to Al Masaood Automobiles Management for their enthusiasm to sponsor this prestigious heritage event. He further stated that a sponsorship was not unusual for loyal citizens who always seek to play their role in sponsoring national events, especially cultural events related to their ancestral heritage.
He said, “Al Masaood has always supported the growth of traditional sports in the country. They continue to facilitate various cultural endeavors which are aimed at instilling a sense of pride in the minds of the youth regarding their culture and heritage.”
Irfan Tansel, CEO, Al Masaood Automobiles, expressed pride in sponsoring the 5th Historic Dalma Sailing Festival. He said, “We, at Al Masaood Group, would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Higher Organizing Committee of the fifth Dalma Sailing Festival for giving us the opportunity to sponsor this historic event. Such initiatives reflect the interest and care shown by our wise leadership towards the UAE’s heritage. We are confident that under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the event will become a huge success, gathering attention from those interested in maritime activities, and the UAE’s vast history. This event will serve as a benchmark for the region’s marine racing competitions and will continue to serve as motivation for the people.”
He added, “Al Masaood Group has always been at the forefront to play its national role towards the community. We are delighted to contribute to the success of many major sporting events that highlight Emirati ancestral heritage, particularly, marine races which are practiced and enjoyed by many.” He also praised the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club’s efforts and massive role in supporting the event.