12th edition of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament raises the bar

The 12th edition of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament achieved significant technical and organizational successes, cementing its position as the largest sporting event of its kind.

Launched and sponsored by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, the tournament is being held annually during the holy month of Ramadan at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex, under the directives of Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, under the slogan "Unlimited Abilities."

Several heads and officials of the sports federations whose championships were held during the twelfth edition of the tournament praised the organizational atmosphere, the results, and the tournament's impact on developing Emirati sports.

Engineer Sheikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the UAE and Asian Fencing Federations, emphasized that the NAS Sports Tournament has become a prominent landmark in the UAE sports agenda and a major annual event in the Fencing Federation's calendar, thanks to its continuous development and the increasing demand for participation in its competitions.

This reinforces its position as one of the largest community sporting events in the region.

Sheikh Salem Al Qasimi noted that the participation of more than 80 male and female players from 13 countries in the tournament's fencing competitions reflects the advanced level reached by the tournament, emphasizing the significant technical and promotional impact it has had in expanding participation in various sports, including fencing.

“By organizing the fifth edition of the fencing championship as part of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, which enjoys a large public following, we have succeeded in attracting the interest of many members of the community in this sport.”

Sheikh Salem Al Qasimi emphasized that the UAE Fencing Federation attaches special importance to this tournament because it provides unique opportunities for local players to interact with elite international champions. He pointed out that the tournament’s prestigious status at the Arab, regional, and international levels, in addition to the distinguished financial prizes, make it an ideal destination for competition and sports development.

Major General Dr. Mohammed Al Murr, President of the UAE Athletics Federation, emphasized that the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament represents a fundamental pillar in supporting and promoting athletics, as the road running competitions have succeeded in attracting a large number of participants of various nationalities, including Emiratis and residents. This success reflects the tireless efforts of the tournament organizers to instill a culture of sports and make it a way of life, with a focus on promoting and developing athletics as one of the cornerstones of competitive sports.

Major General Al Murr emphasized the federation’s commitment to harnessing all its capabilities to ensure the event’s success, emphasizing that the partnership with the Dubai Sports Council and all sports and community entities represents the cornerstone in achieving the Federation’s strategic objectives.

Noura Al Jasmi, President of the UAE Badminton Federation, confirmed the success of the badminton competitions held during the 12th edition of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, which witnessed a large participation of male and female players from both UAE nationals and various nationalities residing in the country.

The UAE Badminton Federation President highlighted the Federation’s rapid progress since its establishment two and a half years ago, marking its inclusion in the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament as a major milestone alongside other key achievements.

She emphasized that featuring badminton in the tournament strengthens its local presence and aligns with the Federation’s development plan to expand player participation nationwide. Expressing gratitude to Sheikh Hamdan bin, she praised the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament as a premier event that fosters a sports culture, enhances talent development, and provides athletes with high-level competitive opportunities.

She also noted that badminton has greatly benefited from this participation, which supports the "Road to Los Angeles 2028" initiative. Launched by the UAE Badminton Federation, the initiative aims to prepare and qualify Emirati players for the 2028 Olympics, advancing the sport’s national and international standing.

Dr. Huda Al Matrooshi, President of the UAE Modern Pentathlon Federation, praised the high level of organizational procedures and the exceptional atmosphere witnessed at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, which has become a model to be emulated in the world of sports.

In a statement, she said: “We extend our deepest thanks and gratitude to Sheikh Hamdan for launching this pioneering tournament and his generous patronage and continuous support for sports and athletes.

“We also extend our sincere appreciation and thanks to the Dubai Sports Council and the organizing committee for their great efforts, which resulted in the organization of an exceptional event characterized by magnificence and strength in every detail.”

She added: "The UAE Modern Pentathlon Federation’s participation for the first time in the NAS Sports Tournament is a qualitative sporting achievement and an important step towards enhancing the status of modern pentathlon on the local and international scene.”