Dubai’s GARS Initiative Kicks Off for 2025–2026 Sports Season
The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has officially launched the latest season of its prominent educational program, “Guiding Aspiring Role Models” (GARS), aimed at fostering essential behavioral values among athletes and club members in Dubai. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33 and seeks to equip young athletes with vital life skills, promote positive conduct, and shield them from social risks. Ultimately, it empowers these young individuals to contribute positively to their families and communities.
Collaboration with Key Partners
GARS runs in collaboration with various sports clubs and strategic partners from leading government organizations. Key contributors include Dubai Police, the Community Development Authority, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, the Dubai Endowment Authority, the Dubai Health Authority, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), and the Emirates Driving Institute. Representatives from prominent local sports clubs—such as Shabab Al Ahli, Al Wasl, Al Nasr, Hatta, and the Dubai Club for People of Determination—gathered for a coordination meeting to discuss the program’s objectives.
A Decade of Impact
Since its inception in 2013, the GARS initiative has established itself as one of the most significant national social programs in Dubai. Over the past ten years, it has engaged a remarkable 45,000 participants from sports clubs and educational institutions. The program has successfully delivered over 1,350 informative lectures and collaborated with more than 30 local and federal organizations to enrich its offerings.
Future Outlook and Comprehensive Development
A critical topic at the recent meeting was GARS’s future trajectory, which remains aligned with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33. The initiative emphasizes sustainable social development through its diverse programs covering community well-being, education, culture, health, and sports. This multi-faceted approach aims to improve the quality of life for all community members.
Main Pillars of the GARS Initiative
The GARS initiative is structured around four essential pillars:
- Promoting ethical and behavioral values
- Educating athletes and cultivating life skills
- Enhancing awareness of health and safety
- Boosting community engagement through field activities and workshops
The program incorporates various formats, including awareness lectures, interactive workshops, group discussions, practical training, and individual consultations.
New This Season: Specialized Programs
This season introduces exciting new activities, including the “Conscious Athlete” program from Dubai Police. This series of workshops will focus on critical topics such as traffic safety, appropriate behaviors in stadiums, and cybercrime prevention. Furthermore, the Dubai Endowment Authority will organize events to underscore the importance of charitable work and community responsibility, aiming to position athletes as ambassadors of positive values.
Additionally, the RTA, alongside Emirates Driving Institute, will conduct virtual driving sessions and awareness courses focusing on road safety and e-scooter regulations. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department will introduce the “Nibras” awareness program tailored for club members. Concurrently, the Community Development Authority will launch the “Child-Friendly Clubs” initiative, targeting child protection within sports organizations.
Open to Community Participation
The GARS initiative welcomes participation from other governmental departments and sports organizations interested in delivering awareness programs throughout the sports season. These sessions can include educational content on game rules, anti-doping measures, and strategies for preventing negative behaviors within sports environments.
Advancing Sports Ethics
The GARS initiative is crucial in supporting the Dubai Sports Council’s strategic vision, which aims to cultivate a sporting landscape rooted in ethical values. This commitment ensures that sports clubs in Dubai become safer and more inviting spaces for young talent, regardless of gender.
Year-Round Engagement Opportunities
Throughout the upcoming year, GARS will host an array of workshops, lectures, and discussion sessions tailored for players, coaches, administrators, parents, and even transport personnel. This round-the-clock engagement guarantees that every stakeholder in the sports ecosystem plays a role in fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and community awareness.
