World Sports Summit Highlights UAE As A Global Sports Hub At Dubai Event

The World Sports Summit in Dubai is described by Minister of Sports Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi as a key moment in strengthening the UAE’s role as a global sports centre, with more than 1,500 participants from over 80 countries highlighting strong international interest in the country’s growing sports sector.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi said the Summit also supports the UAE’s plan to expand the sports economy, including attracting talent and growing sports academies, and noted that this direction is seen in the agreement signed with the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), alongside other partnerships announced during the event.

Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during the first day of the World Sports Summit, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi explained that the event aims to attract international expertise and showcase investment and development opportunities, helping position the UAE as a preferred destination for high-level sports activity and long-term sector growth.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi pointed out that many international athletes already select the UAE for off-season training, crediting the country’s security and stability, advanced sports infrastructure, modern facilities, suitable climate, and overall quality of life, all of which make the UAE an appealing base for both training and sports-related investment.

The Minister added that scheduling the World Sports Summit during the holiday period made it easier to welcome a larger group of athletes and experts from abroad, as many prefer to join conferences and workshops when major competitions pause, allowing more time for networking and technical discussions.

According to Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, summit sessions examined sport’s role as a main pillar of community building, with sport now viewed as more than competition, serving as a tool for improving public and mental health, shaping children’s and youth’s character, and strengthening communication and teamwork skills.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi also addressed concerns about falling sports participation among students, linking this to increased time spent on screens and digital devices, and stressed the need to boost public awareness about regular physical activity because of its direct impact on health, and on the psychological and social balance of upcoming generations.

By drawing experts, investors and athletes from diverse regions to the World Sports Summit, the UAE seeks to deepen its role as a global sports hub, while new agreements, including the deal with FIFA, are presented as part of a broader national approach to build a sustainable sports economy and a stronger, more active community.

With inputs from WAM