The British Omani Society welcomed Oman Sail to speak to our members for a second time on June 16th 2025, where they presented an inspiring talk on the progress of their groundbreaking SailFree programme. Launched in 2019, SailFree is the first para sailing initiative in the Middle East, dedicated to making sailing accessible to individuals with disabilities.
The Oman Sail team were in the UK having just competed in the Hansa Championships, and we were delighted to hear that they had won both 2nd and 3rd prize!
The lecture was started by Khamis Al Anbouri, Head of Corporate and Personal Development, Oman Sail, who gave us background about this pioneering programme and highlighted some of its achievements. SailFree, delivered in partnership with BpOman and the Oman Paralympic Committee, was launched on 3rd December 2019 (United Nations, International Day of Persons with Disabilities) and has truly changed lives. This unique programme provides an opportunity for all athletes to try sailing, enjoy the freedom of being on the water and compete at an international level.
Afterwards, SailFree sailor Hassan Al Lawati shared about his life experiences living with a disability in Oman, overcoming great challenges and ultimately empowering himself and others through sailing. Hassan spoke about meeting His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, who told him that he would have a bright future. He kept these words with him until he eventually discovered his passion for sailing in 2021.
Since then, he has ranked top 5 in sailing with disabilities and won 3rd place at the Hansa Sailing Championship in the UK. This year, he even became the Chairman of Oman Association for Persons with Disability. Hasan’s powerful story of resilience shows how inclusive sport can transform lives and help disabled persons achieve extraordinary things.
The BOS is incredibly grateful to have hosted these incredible sailors and showcase their story. We hope to have the opportunity to host them again in the future!
You can watch a recording of the event here:
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