The PRF was founded in 1998. It is the sole representational body of Palestinian rowers in Palestine and throughout the Palestinian Diaspora.

The PRF has two, primary objectives:

1. To develop rowing in the Gaza Strip; and
2. To offer a means by which Palestinians can compete in international rowing events.

The PRF has managed to sustain its activities for ten years despite exceedingly difficult circumstances. The cooperation involved between local and expatriate Palestinians is a model for innovative sport management in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Since its founding, the PRF has accomplished a number of successes including recognition in the Arab, Asian, and International federations for rowing, six consecutive years of competitive, international competition, and the establishment of its rowing programme in Shaati refugeecamp in the northern Gaza Strip.