traditional dhows

Traditional dhows are ancient sailing vessels originating from the Arabian Peninsula, historically used for trading and fishing across Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf waters. They feature a single long hull with a triangular or lateen sail that allows for effective navigation against the wind. Constructed primarily from wood, dhows vary in size from small boats to large cargo ships, and their design reflects centuries of maritime craftsmanship. Today, they symbolize maritime heritage in regions like the Middle East and East Africa, often used for tourism, cultural festivals, and maintaining traditional sailing skills, blending historic craftsmanship with modern maritime culture.