Surf's Up in Abu Dhabi: The UAE's First-Ever Pro Surfing Event Hits the Waves and its free to enter
Abu Dhabi is about to make history with the Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic, the first professional surfing competition to ever be held in the UAE. From September 27th to 29th, the world’s top longboard surfers will ride the waves at Surf Abu Dhabi, a brand-new man-made surf facility located on Hudayriyat Island. With free entry for spectators, it’s shaping up to be a landmark event for surf fans and curious newcomers alike.
A new surf destination
While the UAE might not be known for its surf culture just yet, that’s all about to change. Surf Abu Dhabi, set to open in October, is already making waves as the world’s largest man-made surf destination. Created in collaboration with the Kelly Slater Wave Company, this impressive facility will offer something for surfers of all levels when it officially opens its doors next month. But before that, it’s playing host to a massive event — the World Surf League’s (WSL) 2024 Longboard Tour.
The Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic is the third stop on the WSL’s longboard tour, putting it in the same league as famous surf spots like Australia’s Bells Beach and Huntington Beach in California. With 48 elite surfers — men and women — vying for crucial points ahead of the tour’s finale in El Salvador, this event brings top-tier surf action to the region for the first time.
A surf spectacle for everyone
If you’re looking for something new to do in Abu Dhabi, this event is a no-brainer. Over three days, you can watch world-class longboarders compete for over eight hours each day. From the cool elegance of longboard surfing to the energy of the crowd, there’s plenty to take in.
But it’s not just about the surfing. You can chill in a dedicated viewing area, snack at food trucks, and grab drinks at a rooftop bar while taking in the Abu Dhabi skyline. Surf Abu Dhabi is pulling out all the stops, offering T-shirts, caps, and other cool gear that you can buy at the merchandise store — perfect for getting signed by the pros.
Want to be part of surf history? Head to Hudayriyat Island from September 27th to 29th to catch all the action live. Entry is free, but tickets are limited, so make sure you register at SurfAbuDhabi.com. Or, if you can’t make it, watch the event live online at worldsurfleague.com.
