The seventh edition of Dubai Games officially commenced on February 12 under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reaffirming the emirate’s commitment to positioning sport as a powerful driver of community engagement, wellbeing, and international recognition.
Bringing together government entities, private sector partners, and members of the wider community, the tournament serves as a large-scale demonstration of teamwork, unity, and integrated collaboration across sectors. The event continues to grow in scale and influence, reflecting Dubai’s ambition to remain a global destination for world-class sporting competitions.
Organised by the Dubai Games 2026 Organising Committee, the championship highlights the city’s evolving ecosystem of strategic partnerships, which support professional delivery, sustainable social impact, and international participation. Over the years, Dubai Games has developed into a prominent fixture on the global sporting calendar.
Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, said the council is proud to continue its partnership with the event, noting that Dubai Games embodies the emirate’s vision of integrating sport into everyday life and attracting teams and organisations from around the world.
Belhoul added that the competition represents a model that combines physical readiness with mental focus, while promoting challenge, ambition, and teamwork. He also highlighted the strong family presence at the venue, aligning with the objectives of the Year of the Family and reinforcing sport’s role in strengthening intergenerational bonds.
According to Belhoul, Dubai Games directly supports the Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 by encouraging community participation, expanding the base of sports engagement, and hosting high-quality events with both local and international impact.
Abdulla bin Damithan, Chairman of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, said Dubai Games reflects the spirit of the emirate by bringing communities together through sport and teamwork. He noted that 14 colleagues from DP World will compete this year after months of preparation, demonstrating the value of trust, discipline, and collective effort.
Hasan Al Mazroui, Member of the Dubai Games 2026 Organising Committee, said the event draws its identity from Dubai’s ambitious and bold ethos, carrying a clear human message about what can be achieved when teams work together. He added that the success of the Games begins with meticulous operational planning, ensuring safety, efficiency, and a seamless experience for participants and spectators.
Dubai Games 2026 runs from February 12 to 15 and is held in official partnership with DP World, alongside Diamond Partners DAMAC, Beyond Developments, and Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat). Gold Partners include Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, Unilabs Middle East, and Al Gurg Group, with the Dubai Sports Council serving as Strategic Partner.
The championship is further supported by Dubai Festival City as Venue Partner, as well as Al-Futtaim Automotive, First Abu Dhabi Bank, du, Red Bull, Mai Dubai, Arabian Radio Network, and Dubai Media Incorporated. Operational support is provided by Dubai Health, Dubai Ambulance, Dubai Police, and the Event Security Committee.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
