UAE's National Sports Day Draws Unprecedented Crowd Of 77,000+ Participants

The 9th edition of the National Sports Day initiative marked a significant milestone, witnessing participation from 77,230 individuals across different segments of society. This figure notably exceeds the previous year's count of 70,000 participants. Themed "The UAE Unites Us," the event was a collaborative effort between the National Olympic Committee and Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Club. A notable highlight was the engagement of 5,000 students from various schools, who competed in a range of sports activities.

The day kicked off with a sports march that saw committee members, club representatives, athletes, and students come together, leading into a series of competitive matches and fitness sessions. The event's inclusivity was evident in its diverse participant demographic, comprising 23% men, 16% women, 21% children, 10% people with determination, and 9% elderly individuals.

Fares Al Mutawa, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee, emphasized the day's significance in reflecting the values and principles of the Olympic movement. He highlighted the increased community participation and the doubling of sports events in this edition. Al Mutawa also expressed gratitude towards H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his support and directives that have fostered a culture of sports within society.

Al Mutawa extended his appreciation to Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Club for their exceptional hospitality and organization, which played a crucial role in the day's success. Abdulaziz Al Salman, a member of the Board of Directors of the National Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Executive Working Group for the National Sports Day initiative, reflected on the growth in event participation. He underscored the initiative's success in promoting inclusivity and its role in supporting government orientations towards sustainable practices.

Al Salman further elaborated on how National Sports Day serves as a platform for educating athletes and society about sustainability. It also fosters cooperation between sports institutions, government agencies, and private sector institutions to advance the sports sector. The initiative's overarching message, "The UAE Unites Us," was vividly brought to life through activities that spanned across the country, engaging institutions, entities, organizations, and individuals in a celebration of sports and unity.

With inputs from WAM