Inauguration of the Asian Youth Paralympic Games – Dubai 2025
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, recently inaugurated the Asian Youth Paralympic Games in Dubai, marking it as the largest edition to date. This celebration of sports includes participation from 1,500 athletes representing 35 different countries, competing across 11 sports. Scheduled to take place from December 10 to December 13, 2025, the event will unfold at eight world-class venues in Dubai, reestablishing the city’s reputation as a global hub for inclusivity and excellence in Paralympic sports following its successful hosting of the 2017 games.
Honoring Leadership and Community Contributions
During the vibrant opening ceremony at the Dubai Club for People of Determination, Sheikh Mansoor honored Her Excellency Shakhnoza Shavkatovna Mirziyoyeva. As the First Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection and the First Deputy Chairperson of the National Paralympic Committee of Uzbekistan, she received accolades for her remarkable contributions to supporting sports initiatives for individuals with disabilities. Her recognition is a testament to the ongoing development of youth programs across Asia, applauded by many for their positive impacts.
The opening ceremony drew attention to notable figures, including His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, and Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai. Also in attendance was Her Excellency Dato Sri Hajjah Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development for Sarawak, Malaysia. The presence of esteemed guests underlines the event’s importance within the international sports community.
A Gathering of Global Sports Leaders
Among the distinguished guests were prominent figures in the sports world, such as Majid Al Usaimi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa from Bahrain’s Paralympic Committee. The event also featured Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Nasser Al Saud and other notable representatives from various regional sports federations. Additionally, ambassadors from participating countries and leaders from local and international media organizations graced the occasion, showcasing global support for the Games.
Celebrating Youth and Sportsmanship
The opening ceremony showcased a lively parade featuring athletes from different nations proudly displaying their flags. A promotional video illustrated the indomitable spirit and youthful energy of the participants, setting an uplifting tone for the competition ahead. The Games will see athletes engaging in a range of sports including athletics, swimming, boccia, powerlifting, table tennis, archery, goalball, badminton, wheelchair basketball, arm wrestling, and taekwondo. An exciting innovation this year is the significant integration of artificial intelligence into event operations, further enhancing the organization of this landmark event.
Acknowledgments and Forward-Thinking Approach
His Excellency Thani Jumaa Al-Riqad, Chairman of the Organising Committee, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Sheikh Mansoor for his patronage. He commended the young athletes for symbolizing the future of the Asian Paralympic movement and emphasized Dubai’s enduring status as a foremost hub for sports promoting inclusion for people of determination. The successful organization of the Games within a tight timeline exemplifies the motivation stemming from challenges to deliver a celebration of determination and resilience.
President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, Majid Al-Otaibi, also emphasized the incredible passion and spirit shown by the young athletes. He pointed out that the Dubai 2025 edition would be notable for its size, uniting 1,500 athletes from across 35 nations. He praised the strategic use of artificial intelligence in managing the event, highlighting its role in pioneering advancements in sports for individuals with disabilities.
Upholding Values Through Sports
The ceremony included the singing of the Asian Paralympic Committee anthem followed by an official oath taken by athlete representative Mohammed Khalid Taleb and referee Tariq Al Ali, reaffirming the Games’ core values of integrity and respect. A cultural showcase narrated the essence of the event with a captivating performance by Emirati artist Eyadah Al Menhali, celebrating the resolve and accomplishments of the athletes.
As the evening unfolded, a sense of gratitude resonated among participants and attendees alike. This event not only marks a beginning for many Asian Paralympic athletes but also serves as a vital platform to advance the future of burgeoning talent across the continent. The energy, ambition, and excellence observed during these Games are sure to shape lasting memories and motivate future generations.
