Al Ain will host the inaugural edition of the International RC Aerobatics Competition from April 2 to 6.
The event is supported by the Department of Culture and Tourism in Al Ain and organized by Eco Adventure Tourism.
A total of 70 pilots, including 40 professionals representing 16 countries from around the world, will participate in the championship.
This was announced during a press conference held on Thursday. It was attended by Abdullah Al Neyadi, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and the Director of IMAC UAE; Ali Maslah Al Ahbabi, Championship Director; Saeed Abdullah Al Dhaheri, Director of Development for Al Ain and Dhafra at the Department of Culture and Tourism; Dr. Ahmed Ali Al Raisi from UAE University; Yousef Jassem Al Azyzi from the General Civil Aviation Authority; Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi, President of the Emirates Aerosports Federation; Obaid Ali Al Dhaheri from Al Ain Hobby Club; Manrico Mincuzzi, President of the IMAC Europe; and Al Hareth Mohammed Salem, representing the Emirates Falcons Aviation Club.
Ahbabi expressed his pride in the UAE hosting this prestigious international event for the first time outside of America and Europe, reflecting the country's esteemed global status.
Ahbabi highlighted that securing the event itself is a significant achievement made possible by the UAE’s unwavering support for sports and athletes, thanks to the vision and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
He also outlined the accompanying activities, including competitions and valuable prizes for winners and spectators.
UAE University will participate by organizing various workshops aimed at promoting aviation culture across all segments of society and attracting aviation enthusiasts from the UAE and the region.
Al Ahbabi extended his gratitude to the Department of Culture and Tourism, the General Civil Aviation Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, Al Ain Hobby Club, Khalifa University, UAE University, the Emirates Aerosports Federation, Abu Dhabi Classic Cars Club, the event organizer "Eco," Red Med Media, and IMAC UAE, the local representative of IMAC International.
Dhaheri praised the organizing committee for hosting this unique event, which aligns with the department’s strategy to promote Al Ain as a top destination. He noted that the city has previously hosted successful events such as the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship, and now, the Wireless Aviation Championship is expected to achieve unprecedented success.
Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi emphasized Al Ain’s significance and expressed hope that the city will become the capital of wireless aviation sports. He highlighted the growing popularity of the sport, particularly among the youth.
Mincuzzi, expressed his delight in being in the UAE, noting that introducing young people to the sport before the age of 30 is similar to F1 racing.
He explained that young individuals quickly grasp the sport, which enhances their creative abilities and empowers them to contribute effectively to society.
Dr. Ahmed Al Raisi stated that UAE University believes in collaboration across all sectors of society.
"The university has launched a ‘Design, Build and Fly’ competition aimed at encouraging student innovation, teamwork, and project management skills. The event will feature aircraft models, various competitions, and specialized workshops."