The dynamic Destination Village on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Breakwater is the place to be this Wednesday afternoon (Jan 4) to bid a warm Arabian welcome to the Volvo Ocean Race fleet. Join the fans and witness the fleet arrival and the homecoming of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s yacht Azzam, with Adil Khalid, the only Emirati sailor ever to take part in the raceome.
Traditional dhows, manned by Emirati crew chanting ancient songs, will accompany the racing yachts into harbour. Ayala dancers will perform as the crew members come ashore and girls in traditional dress will shower the crew with confetti in the colours of the UAE flag as they make their way up the pontoon to the welcoming committee. There’s also a planned celebratory ‘welcome’ firework show at 6pm.
The first yacht is expected to make it to the UAE capital at around 3.30pm, with the remaining yachts arriving at various times throughout the afternoon and early evening. Visitors can come earlier and stay later for the fireworks and more as there is so much to do and see in the village that they will be fully entertained the whole time – and it’s all free.
The awesome Volvo Ocean Race fleet will be in Abu Dhabi until January 14.
For more information on the stopover, please visit www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com
