With race day approaching fast, the Aramex Dubai to Muscat 2026 Sailing Race crossed a clear threshold this week.
At the official pre-event skippers’ briefing, planning gave way to preparation – and ambition turned into action.
More than120 sailors, crew, sponsors, partners and officials attended in person and online, setting the tone for what is now the largest Dubai to Muscat fleet in the race’s 33-year history. The scale was unmistakable. So was the focus.
This year, 35 boats – including 10 multihulls – will line up for the 360-nautical-mile passage from Dubai to Muscat. The fleet brings together seasoned offshore racing teams, returning competitors and crews stepping up to the challenge for the first time. Different backgrounds, different boats – one shared reality once they leave the dock.
The briefing moved quickly beyond formalities. Offshore safety regulations, scrutineering requirements, weather systems, routing decisions and the realities of rounding the Musandam were all addressed directly. It was a practical, clear-eyed reminder that this race rewards preparation and teamwork – and exposes anything less.
For those unable to attend, or for teams revisiting the detail, the full briefing deck is available via the website portal.
Dubai to Muscat pre-event brief…
Beyond the formal programme, the evening also captured the human side of the race. Event partners and sponsors were on the ground,conducting interviews with skippers and crew, gathering stories from past editions and expectations for the year ahead.
From hard-earned lessons and close calls to unfinished business and quiet confidence, these conversations reflected what defines the Dubai to Muscat beyond the course itself – experience, resilience, humour and camaraderie under pressure. This content will feed into race coverage across digital and media channels in the lead-up to the start and throughout race week.
As preparations intensify, staying connected has become increasingly important.
All skippers, crew, supporters and partners are encouraged to join theofficial Aramex Dubai to Muscat 2026 community group. This channel will carry race announcements, crew and boat connections, Q&A, and opportunities to get involved in interviews, social content and storytelling.
Scan the QR code to join the official community group.
With a record fleet now fully engaged and preparations well underway, the 2026 edition has moved decisively into its next phase.
The fleet is set. The course is waiting. And the road to Muscat has begun.
