Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 Launched To Enhance Competitiveness And Community Engagement

H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), has unveiled the Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033. This plan outlines a vision to elevate Dubai's sports sector, aiming for it to become the world's top sporting city by 2033. The strategy seeks to boost competitiveness and economic potential within the sector.

A special event at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex highlighted the plan's key elements. Attendees included local and international sports figures, industry officials, federation representatives, and organisers of major sporting events. The event also marked the introduction of Dubai’s new sports identity, chosen from numerous public submissions.

Prev

Next

The strategic plan is structured around four main pillars: Community, Events, Clubs, and Talent. It includes 19 programmes and 75 initiatives aimed at improving sports infrastructure and increasing community participation. The plan also focuses on nurturing talent through advanced training systems overseen by the Dubai Sports Council.

H.H. Sheikh Mansoor emphasised that this initiative reflects Dubai’s dedication to fostering a world-class sports sector that encourages talent development and community involvement while promoting sustainable growth in the industry. "We have launched a comprehensive and forward-looking vision for the future of sport in Dubai," he stated.

The plan aims to increase the sports sector's contribution to Dubai’s GDP from AED10.17 billion to AED18.3 billion annually by 2033. It also seeks to grow active participation in sports from 1.6 million residents to 2.6 million and boost attendance at major events from 1.67 million to 4.1 million participants each year.

Seventeen priority sports are identified within three categories: Emerging Sports like padel and Esports; Community Sports such as running; and globally popular sports like golf and cricket. These categories aim to foster engagement, improve public health, and enhance economic value.

Future Vision for Dubai's Sports Sector

The strategic plan aligns with the broader Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, launched under directives from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It aims to create an integrated sports system that supports community development, competitive excellence, and effective governance.

"Our goal is for Dubai to become the world’s leading destination for sports," H.H. Sheikh Mansoor added, highlighting plans for empowering clubs to meet international standards while expanding community participation through improved facilities.

Commitment to Excellence

The DSC will implement robust governance mechanisms with clear performance indicators to ensure effective execution of all initiatives. Collaboration with government entities and private sectors will be strengthened for project sustainability and investment efficiency in sports infrastructure.

The new strategic plan reinforces Dubai’s commitment to building a healthy society while solidifying its status as a regional sports hub. It enhances Dubai’s global reputation in happiness indices by positioning sport as a foundation for wellbeing.

H.H. Sheikh Mansoor directed that the objectives of this strategic plan be showcased during the World Sports Summit in December in Dubai. This summit will gather international sports stars, decision-makers, officials, and representatives from leading federations worldwide.

With inputs from WAM