UAE Baseball Promotion: Committee Explores Growth Opportunities
Baseball, a sport traditionally overshadowed by the likes of cricket and football in the Middle East, is beginning to carve out a niche for itself in the United Arab Emirates. At the centre of this transformation is the Baseball Governing Committee, a three-member panel tasked with nurturing talent, establishing academies, and organising world-class events across the country.
Chaired by Dr Tayyab Kamali, with Zayed Abbas and Mubashshir Usmani as members, the committee has undertaken significant strides since baseball’s governance was placed under the Emirates Cricket Board by the UAE government two years ago. Their mandate: to sow the seeds of baseball from the grassroots up and explore growth opportunities on a national scale.
“The Emirates Cricket Board remains committed to the growth of baseball and will continue to create opportunities for the sport’s promotion by nurturing talent, setting up baseball academies and by staging world-class events across the country. The committee has also explored partnership opportunities with various baseball entities from around the world — a series of exciting announcements will be made in due course,” said Dr Tayyab Kamali.
Developing Talent, Building Infrastructure
One of the committee’s primary goals is to create a sustainable pathway for local players, starting with youth programs and culminating in advanced training centres. Plans are already underway to launch baseball academies that not only provide skills training but also foster a deeper appreciation for the sport among Emirati youth.
These academies aim to tap into the UAE’s multicultural demographic, leveraging the presence of American, Japanese, Korean, Caribbean, and Latin American communities — all with rich baseball traditions. By providing world-class coaching and facilities, the committee hopes to position the UAE as a regional hub for baseball and a promising destination for international tournaments.
Hosting International Events
In addition to developing local talent, the Committee is focusing on attracting global baseball events. Hosting international tournaments will give UAE players a platform to compete against and learn from some of the sport’s finest, while also generating interest and excitement among local sports fans. Such events are expected to stimulate tourism and create new opportunities for sports businesses and sponsors.
Strategic Partnerships
Building partnerships with established baseball organisations worldwide is another pillar of the committee’s long-term vision. These collaborations are expected to bring in expertise, investment, and visibility to the sport within the UAE, further accelerating its development.
Looking Ahead
While baseball in the UAE is still in its early innings, momentum is clearly building. With government support, a dedicated committee, and a diverse talent pool, the foundations are being laid for the sport to flourish. As Dr Kamali indicated, further announcements and partnerships are anticipated in the near future, signalling a new chapter for baseball enthusiasts across the nation.
Team V.GG-LNK
