UAE's 9th National Sports Day Draws Over 77,000 Participants

The ninth edition of the National Sports Day in United Arab Emirates, held under the theme of "The UAE Unites Us," witnessed 77,230 participants, surpassing last year's record of 70,000 individuals.

The National Olympic Committee organized the event in collaboration with the Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Club, where individuals from schools including 5,000 students engaged in various sports competitions.

The event began with a march led by committee members, club representatives, athletes, and students. Following the sports march, there were competitive matches and fitness sessions.

The sports activities attracted participants of all ages including 23% men, 16% women, 21% children, 10% people with determination and nine percent elderly individuals.

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 appreciated this year's increased participation.

"The National Sports Day affirms the ability of the sports sector to play an effective role in supporting the commitment to government orientations by encouraging sustainable practices and educating athletes and various segments of society about the importance of sustainability and ways to enhance commitment to it based on daily sports activities," he said, WAM reported.

"In addition to entrenching effective cooperation between sports institutions, government agencies and private sector institutions with the aim of contributing to the advancement of the sports sector," he added.

Al Salman also noted that this event shows growing interest in sports while allowing interaction between all categories. Moreover, the sports event is encouraging institutions, entities, organizations and individuals to participate in the National Sports Day initiative.

The UAE has been encouraging sports activities in the country.

The event was held just one day after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council alongside President of Shabab Al Ahli – Dubai Club approved two stadium designs that can accommodate over 20,000 spectators each.

Sheikh Hamdan last month inaugurated the fifth edition of the Gov Games in Dubai Festival City.