AWST, UANOC partnership aims to shape future of Arab sports for Women Athletes

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The Higher Steering Committee of the Arab Women Sports Tournament 2024 (AWST) has entered into a collaboration agreement with the Union of Arab National Olympic Committees (UANOC) which aims to amplify the reach and impact of women athletes, securing exclusive rights encompassing sponsorship, advertising, marketing, and broadcasting for the highly anticipated seventh edition of the tournament.

The agreement, held at Al Jada in Sharjah, was officially inked by Abdulaziz Al Anazi, Secretary-General of the Union of Arab National Olympic Committees, Sheikha Hayat Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Supervision and Monitoring Committee at UANOC, and Hanan Al Mahmoud, Vice Chairman of the Higher Steering Committee of AWST, under the presence of key representatives from AWST and UANOC.

During the signing ceremony, Sheikha Hayat underscored the instrumental role sports play in fortifying the bonds of sisterhood among Arab nations. She emphasised the shared objectives, interests, and values that unite everyone in their pursuit of excellence.

"The Arab Women Sports Tournament embodies a visionary approach led by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of Sharjah Women Sports (SWS).

“Since its inception in 2012, this vision has dedicated special attention to Arab women in the sports arena, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and continuous development.

The goal is to achieve meaningful participation and regional and international impact, fostering communication among Arab girls.

“I also commend the efforts and guidance of His Royal Highness Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, the President of the Arab National Olympic Committees, whose significant contributions support and guide all efforts toward the success of this edition. This positively reflects on women's sports in our beloved Arab homeland," stated Sheikha Hayat.

On her part, Hanan Al Mahmoud expressed gratitude to UANOC, acknowledging it as a strategic partner and steadfast supporter of the tournament, and affirmed the committee's commitment to delivering an exceptional and ideal edition that befits the esteemed status of Arab sports, ensuring the realization of its goals and aspirations.

"Our partnership with the UANOC is a cornerstone in supporting and developing Arab women's sports. It streamlines the efforts of the Higher Steering Committee of AWST and backs our efforts in growing the Arab sports sector, both in general and women's sports specifically, thanks to the support of all official government and private entities, yielding significant benefits for Arab societies in terms of health, development, and progress," said Hanan.

She added, "Women's sports are an integral part of social responsibility. It is a highly rewarding investment, and we witness its positive effects with every edition of the AWST. Whether through Arab female athletes showcasing their talents, the exchange of experiences among administrative and technical Arab bodies, or the passionate support of a diverse Arab audience, the spirit of sisterhood and passion for sports prevails."

The eagerly awaited 7th edition of the AWST is slated to kick off at Al Majaz Amphitheatre in Sharjah on February 2, 2024. Organized by Sharjah Women's Sports, the tournament will witness the participation of 64 sports teams and 560 women athletes from 15 Arab countries, competing for gold in eight main games until February 12, 2024.

This edition promises to be a monumental celebration of women's sports, uniting nations in the pursuit of athletic excellence and camaraderie.