UAE Gears Up For The 9th Edition Of National Sports Day: Unity Through Sport

The 9th edition of the National Sports Day Initiative, scheduled for Thursday, 7th March, is poised to unite the UAE under the banner "The UAE brings us together". This year's event promises an extensive lineup of activities, with seven main events spread across each emirate and a plethora of sub-programmes designed to engage participants for a full 24 hours. This initiative aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and follows the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of both the National Olympic Committee (NOC) and the Supreme Committee for the National Sports Day initiative.

During a press conference in Dubai, attended by the National Olympic Committee's Executive Team and various media outlets, details of the event were shared. Abdulaziz Al Salman, Board Member of the National Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Executive Team for the National Sports Day, highlighted the initiative's significant impact over the past eight years. Since its inception in 2015, it has become a pivotal national sports event, encouraging participation across all demographics in a range of activities that span sports, heritage, and entertainment.

The initiative aims to foster a culture of physical activity within the UAE, promoting sports as a daily lifestyle choice for a healthier society. To date, 189 sub-events have been registered by 75 government agencies and 59 private sector institutions. This number is expected to rise before the event date, surpassing last year's participation of 70,000 individuals.

Each emirate will host a main event to mark the occasion. Fujairah will see participants gathering for a walking marathon along its scenic Corniche and Umbrella Corniche. Umm Al Quwain Creek Waterfront and Ajman's heritage path will be venues for significant gatherings, with Ajman focusing on a two-hour walking event. Ras Al Khaimah's main event will take place on Al Qawasim Corniche with various sports activities and a march organized by the RAK Police General Headquarters. Sharjah plans to engage its community in Kashisha Park alongside events in its Eastern and Central Regions. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are set to offer a wide array of sports activities and programs throughout the day.

This year's National Sports Day Initiative not only aims to exceed previous participation records but also seeks to strengthen community bonds through shared physical activities. It represents an opportunity for residents across the UAE to come together in celebration of health, wellness, and national pride.

With inputs from WAM