Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, presided over a Council's Board of Directors meeting to discuss significant initiatives, strategic projects, and major sporting events designed to bolster Dubai's status as a global sports hub.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Mansoor highlighted Dubai's ongoing leadership in launching initiatives that enhance the global sports sector and its importance in supporting communities and urban economies. He stressed the role of sports in empowering various societal segments, attracting and nurturing talent, promoting health, and improving the quality of life.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor expressed appreciation for the Ministry of Sports, the UAE National Olympic Committee, and sports federations for their oversight of competitions in the past sports season. He also praised the clubs for their efforts in fostering robust competition, which in turn strengthens teams and boosts athletes' capabilities in local, continental, and international arenas.
He congratulated Dubai Basketball Club for its achievement in EuroLeague and its advancement to the Adriatic League final, showcasing the success of this investment-based sports project. Additionally, he acknowledged Hatta Club's victory in the UAE Division One football title and promotion to the UAE Pro League, as well as United Club's historic qualification for the professional league. Palm City 365 Club was also lauded for winning the UAE FA Cup, further exemplifying the potential of investment clubs in Dubai.
The meeting, attended by key figures including Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Ali Al Mutawa, Ahmed Al Khaja, Dr. Abdullah Al Karam, Majid Al Usaimi, and Safia Al Sayegh, with Saeed Hareb as Secretary General, also focused on preparations for the second 'World Sports Summit'. This summit has become a premier global platform, reinforcing Dubai's role in shaping the future of the sports sector.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor emphasized the summit's success in unifying efforts to advance sports globally and fostering collaboration among sports federations, organizations, and investors. Plans to accelerate support for Dubai's government and private clubs were also reviewed, with the 'Club Accelerators Programme' aiming to achieve sustainable growth through performance-linked funding.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor extended congratulations to Board member Majid Al Usaimi for receiving an honorary doctorate in management from the National University in Seoul, recognizing his contributions to the Paralympic movement.
The meeting reviewed the 'Strategy Committee' report, highlighting 74% active implementation of strategic initiatives for 2025 and 2026, and the readiness of 17 key initiatives to develop an integrated professional sports system. Efforts to streamline procedures for hosting international sporting events in Dubai were also discussed.
Key sporting events for the latter half of 2026 were outlined, including major international championships and community-focused events. The meeting also explored strategic plans for community engagement, talent development, and infrastructure improvements.
The meeting concluded with the approval of new committee formations to enhance institutional efficiency, including the Global Events Hosting and Organising Committee, Football Committee, Investment and Projects Committee, and Sports Development Committee.