Dubai’s Hamdan Sports Complex has welcomed a record 1,670 swimmers from over 100 nationalities as the Dubai International Aquatics Championship 2026 gets underway, reinforcing the city’s position as a leading hub for international sporting events.
Running from 2 to 5 April, the championship brings together more than 80 clubs and academies from across the UAE and abroad. Organised by the UAE Aquatics Federation in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council and Hamdan Sports Complex, the event is expected to attract over 4,000 spectators.
Officially approved by World Aquatics, the competition contributes to athlete rankings for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, adding further significance to the meet.
Abdulwahid Al Jasmi, board member of the UAE Marine Sports Federation, said hosting the championship reflects the UAE’s growing global stature in staging major sporting events. He noted that the competition plays a critical role in nurturing young talent and providing athletes with a platform to advance their careers.
Organisers have emphasised high technical standards and seamless execution, ensuring a world-class experience for participants and spectators alike.
With a strong field of emerging and elite swimmers competing across multiple events, the championship is already witnessing intense performances. The scale and calibre of participation continue to strengthen its standing as a key fixture on the international aquatics calendar.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
