UAE Launches New Program to Support Athletes During National Service

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence — attended the launch of a new programme called the ‘National Service Athlete Program’. This important step brings together the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Sports to help young Emirati athletes stay on track in their sports careers while serving their country.

The goal of this programme is to support top athletes who are currently doing their national service. These athletes will now get special training plans, allowing them to keep building their skills, stay fit, and compete in global sports events that count towards their international rankings and qualifications.

The launch took place during a special event hosted by both ministries. Sheikh Hamdan met with the first group of young recruits chosen for the programme. Also attending the event were Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, and Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Hamdan said that helping top athletes is part of the UAE’s bigger plan to support its youth and encourage talent in every field, especially sports. He said:

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“Athletes represent the UAE around the world. We want to give them every chance to do well. This programme helps our youth grow stronger in both body and mind. It teaches them discipline, focus, and leadership — all things they’ll need to lead the country in the future.”

He added that this new programme shows how different government departments are working together to spot new talent, support current champions, and help them proudly represent the UAE on the world stage. “Sports and national service both build character. This programme combines both,” he said.

Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, explained that the programme is an important step in helping young athletes stay strong and ready during their national service. It is also part of the UAE’s bigger National Sports Strategy 2031, which aims to encourage fitness and build a healthy society.

“This programme brings out the best of both ministries. It helps our youth stay active, build their skills, and prepare for a better future,” he said. “It also fits with the goals of ‘We the UAE 2031’, which focuses on giving young people the tools to succeed and serve the nation well.”

Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, said the programme gives young athletes a way to continue their training without giving up their duty to the nation.

“It gives them a space to grow — as both athletes and citizens. It also helps us find new talent and train them in a way that mixes discipline with excellence in sports,” he said.

The programme will also help keep track of the athletes' progress. Special sports teams will regularly check on the athletes and spot new talent. These young players will be able to join important tournaments, including the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar in 2026 and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.

The first group of athletes includes those training in many different sports, such as fencing, horse riding, archery, running, and combat sports. This shows that the UAE is working hard to support talent in every area of sport.

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This programme also sets up ways for the Defence and Sports ministries to work closely together — planning joint events, sharing knowledge, and helping each other with logistics and coaching. Workshops and training sessions will be held to improve both fitness and sports education.

A joint committee made up of members from both ministries and other groups will manage the programme. They will meet regularly to make sure everything runs smoothly and that the programme stays in line with the country’s big goals for youth and sports.