Over 600 Athletes Unite for Special Olympics UAE Games

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

The inaugural Special Olympics UAE Games is currently underway at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, featuring the enthusiastic participation of over 600 athletes from various regions of the UAE. Scheduled to run until June 10, 2024, the event encompasses a wide array of sports activities, including bowling, badminton, basketball, football, powerlifting, and esports.

Athletes competing in the games hail from People of Determination clubs and centers across the UAE, such as the Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination, Al Ain Club for People of Determination, Dubai Club for People of Determination, and many others. These clubs serve as essential platforms for nurturing the talents and skills of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE and Chairman of the UAE Games, expressed his pride in the event, emphasizing its role in promoting inclusion and unity through sports. He highlighted the unwavering support of UAE leadership in empowering People of Determination and acknowledged the invaluable contributions of sponsors and partners in facilitating the success of the Games.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

In addition to competitive sports, the Special Olympics UAE Games features a comprehensive health program aimed at ensuring the well-being of participating athletes. This program includes health screenings covering various aspects such as foot health, hearing health, oral and dental health, mental health, and eye checks. The screenings are conducted by a team of more than 160 medical professionals and volunteers from across the UAE, supported by numerous healthcare sector partners.

As part of the event, doctors from the UAE and several other countries will undergo Unified Healthcare training sessions to enhance their ability to deliver healthcare services to People of Determination effectively. These efforts underscore the commitment to providing inclusive and compassionate healthcare services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Alongside the primary competitions, the Special Olympics UAE Games feature community-wide sports activities, including bowling, basketball, and football, aimed at promoting unified engagement and experiences. The event also includes the announcement of winners for the Local Golisano Health Leadership Award, recognizing organizations that contribute significantly to inclusive healthcare initiatives.

Supported by various local organizations and sports federations, the inaugural Special Olympics UAE Games serves as a platform to showcase the transformative power of sports in fostering inclusion and empowerment for People of Determination across the UAE. The widespread support and participation reflect the collective commitment to advancing the rights and well-being of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community.