Scheduled for February 28, the unique aerial competition will take place concurrently with the Dubai Boat Show, allowing exhibition visitors to witness the event.
The inaugural Dubai Jet Suit Race, declared by the Dubai Sports Council, will mark the world’s first competitive event where participants take to the air without the assistance of an aircraft. Instead, contenders will navigate a predefined course using jet engine-equipped suits.
Under the patronage and directives of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the event is organized in collaboration with Gravity Industries. Scheduled for February 28, the competition will coincide with the Dubai Boat Show, providing exhibition visitors with the opportunity to witness this distinctive aerial contest.
Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, affirmed that eight contestants from various countries, including the UAE’s Ahmed Al Shehhi, will compete for top honors. This sporting spectacle aims to highlight Dubai’s prominence as a host of significant global events.
Sheikh Mansoor emphasized that the launch of the race marks the commencement of an era filled with thrilling global aerial sporting events, showcasing Dubai’s enterprising spirit and its ability to overcome challenges. The event reflects Dubai’s unique qualities and limitless energy in presenting innovative ideas that blend innovation, adventure, and ambition, pushing the boundaries of human imagination and paving the way for even greater achievements worldwide.
The announcement regarding the race launch took place at an engaging ceremony near the Burj Khalifa in Burj Park. Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council; Richard Browning, founder and chief test pilot of Gravity Industries; and Samer Al Shammari, Director of the Race, addressed a diverse audience comprising media representatives, aerial sports specialists, adventurers, and enthusiastic fans. A live demonstration featuring three jet suit competitors soaring over the Dubai Fountain captivated the audience.
During the ceremony, it was revealed that an agreement between the Dubai Sports Council and Gravity Industries was signed to organize the Dubai Jet Suit Race. Emirati racer Ahmed Al Shehhi is currently undergoing intensive training in Britain to qualify for participation in this groundbreaking global race.
The jet suit racing competition is set to take place in the area between Dubai Harbor and Skydive Dubai, with a designated water expanse considered suitable for the sport. Specially designed suits with a focus on health and safety aspects, including protection from drowning and extra buoyancy, will be worn by competitors.
Hareb expressed delight, stating that the race will become an unforgettable addition to the local sports calendar, with an Emirati racer from the XDubai team participating. He thanked RTA, Dubai Police, SKYDIVE Dubai, and X DUBAI for their support and highlighted the iconic locations, such as Dubai Harbour and the waterfront overlooking the Palm Island, as ideal venues for this remarkable event.
Richard Browning, founder of Gravity Industries, highlighted the excitement and drama the Gravity Race Series will bring, surpassing the visceral thrill of Formula One, and praised Dubai’s support for showcasing the potential of human and technological achievements.
Samer Al Shammari expressed pleasure in hosting this unique tournament at Dubai Harbour, emphasizing the high skill required for flying in a jet suit and the commitment to attracting more people to the sport for its continued growth.
