Mansoor bin Mohammed Strengthens Dubai’s Commitment to Sports Sector Growth
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, has reaffirmed Dubai’s dedication to the growth of its sports sector. This commitment includes significant investments in sports infrastructure, enhancing the appeal of various sports, and ensuring accessibility for all community segments.
The remarks were made during the opening of the 13th edition of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament. Organized by the Dubai Sports Council under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the tournament has attracted over 11,000 athletes, marking it as the largest edition to date.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament will take place at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex from February 18 to March 7, 2026. Athletes will compete in 11 different events, including international competitions featuring elite athletes from around the globe.
Sheikh Mansoor emphasized the leadership’s unwavering support for the sustained growth of diverse sectors. He stated that Dubai will continue to attract and organize various sporting events, launch pioneering sports initiatives, and host international gatherings that reflect the emirate’s future-focused vision and commitment to sustainable development.
The tournament holds a significant place within the initiatives of the Dubai Sports Council, given its unique connection to the Nad Al Sheba area and its rich heritage. It coincides with the Holy Month of Ramadan each year, making it a highly anticipated event for athletes from the UAE and beyond. Participants are drawn not only by the level of competition but also by the vibrant atmosphere the tournament creates.
Events and Competitions
This year’s tournament features competitions across 11 sports, including:
- Volleyball
- Padel
- Wheelchair Basketball
- Cycling
- Road Running
- Fencing
- Badminton
- 3×3 Basketball
- Tug-of-War
- Obstacle Course
- Jiu-Jitsu
Padel
The tournament will kick off with the International Padel Federation Silver Cup for men and women, running until February 22. Competitions will take place at state-of-the-art indoor padel courts. Following this, the Nad Al Sheba International Padel Championship will feature top Arab and international teams from February 23 to 27, with local junior ranking competitions scheduled from February 28 to March 6.
Fencing
The fencing championship is set for February 19 and 20 in the main hall of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex. It will include international men’s épée competitions and local competitions for female citizens and residents. Qualifying rounds will occur on February 19, with semi-finals and finals on February 20.
Cycling
A 74-km cycling race will be held on February 21 and 22. The course will stretch along Meydan Street and intersect Mohammed Bin Rashid City at various points. This event is open to all citizens and residents, including amateur cyclists and club members aged 19 and above who have participated in official events within and outside the UAE. The competition will adhere to the rules set by the UAE Cycling Federation and will feature multiple categories, including Open, Amateur, Senior Citizens, People of Determination, and Teams.
Badminton
The badminton championship will take place on February 22 and 23, open to citizens, residents, and foreigners. The event will follow the rules established by the Badminton World Federation, with qualifying rounds, Round of 16, and quarterfinals on February 22, and semi-finals and finals on February 23.
Jiu-Jitsu
Scheduled for February 24 and 25, the Jiu-Jitsu championship will welcome all citizens, residents, and local and international players. Competitors will be matched based on draws, with a knockout system in effect, consistent with the standards of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation Championships.
Obstacle Challenge
The Obstacle Challenge Championship will run from February 20 to 24, promising even more excitement and challenges than previous years.
Road Running Races
Road running races will occur on February 27 at Al Meydan track, featuring 10-km, 5-km, and 4-km events. Participation is open to citizens, residents, and local and international athletes from within the UAE or GCC countries.
3×3 Basketball
The 3×3 basketball competition will return to the tournament, taking place from February 19 to March 6 on outdoor courts near the Fan Village at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex. This addition is expected to enhance the tournament’s atmosphere and spectator interest.
Tug-of-War and Wheelchair Basketball
The tug-of-war tournament will be held from March 1 to 6, while wheelchair basketball competitions will commence on February 24.
Volleyball
The volleyball tournament will conclude the annual sporting showcase, with the title match scheduled for March 7.
As reported by www.mediaoffice.ae.
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Published on 2026-02-18 12:00:00 • By Editorial Desk
