The inaugural UAE Games for People of Determination will commence tomorrow in Abu Dhabi, featuring over 1,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, unified partners, and supporting staff.
Organized by the Special Olympics UAE, the event includes two flagship competitions: the Unified Schools UAE Games and the UAE Games for People of Determination’s clubs and centers. These events encompass various sports like football, badminton, basketball, bowling, e-sports, and powerlifting, with participants from across the UAE. The games are held in collaboration with sports federations and councils in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, announced the inaugural UAE Games, building on the legacy of the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi. The event aims to empower People of Determination and provide a platform for athletes to compete and form friendships. It will assess athletes for future development plans, collaborating with various clubs and centers across the UAE. Additionally, community organizations like Heroes of Hope and Emirates Down Syndrome Association will participate. The event will feature health screenings, recreational sports activities, and is organized with support from ADNOC, SEHA, and other partners.
The UAE Games receives support from key sponsors including the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) for the Health Programme, Aldar Properties for recreational basketball events, and the Integrated Transport Centre - Department of Municipalities and Transport for transportation. Specialized services are also provided by the Professional Communications Corporation (Nedaa), the UAE Badminton Federation, and the Emirates Body Building Federation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
