Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Reaffirms Commitment to Transforming Sports Sector and Preserving Heritage Sports in Al Ain Region

Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan Reaffirms Strategic Vision for Sports Development and Heritage Preservation in Al Ain Region ABU DHABI, 1st October, 2025 – Strategic initiatives and projects aimed at transforming the sports sector and preserving traditional sports are central to the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in establishing sports as a key driver for comprehensive and sustainable development and as an effective tool for enhancing community wellbeing and encouraging healthy lifestyles. H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, underlined this commitment while meeting with delegations from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the Emirates Falconers’ Club, the Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club, and the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club. Among those present during the meeting were Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Fares Mohammed Al Mazrouei (Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club), Majid Ali Al Mansouri (Secretary-General of Emirates Falconers’ Club), Aref Hamad Al Awani (Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council), and Mohammed Rashid Al Nasseri (General Manager of Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club). During the discussions, H.H. Sheikh Hazza was briefed on the Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s vision and strategic plans for the Al Ain Region, particularly future efforts for strengthening the role of sports in developmental activities and supporting vital sectors. The council’s brief included plans to develop sports infrastructure and facilities, host major events and competitions, support athletes, and promote a sports culture within the community. Emphasis was also placed on establishing new sports centres, supporting Olympic clubs and the Al Ain Ladies Club, implementing school sports programmes, and increasing the number of sporting and community events in the region. In his remarks, H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the significance of enhancing community sports activities and expanding their reach due to their critical role in fostering cooperation, positive interaction, and improving both physical and mental health. He stated that organizing such events is “a vital investment and key driver in reinforcing community cohesion and social solidarity.” A special focus was also given to the Emirates Falconers’ Club, highlighting its main activities in the Al Ain Region and ongoing work to preserve falconry as a crucial aspect of Emirati cultural heritage. H.H. Sheikh Hazza reviewed the club’s initiatives and programmes designed to promote falconry traditions and knowledge and to make Al Ain Region a prominent destination for heritage and sports events. He underscored the need to intensify efforts to safeguard falconry, emphasizing the importance of preserving this cultural legacy by introducing initiatives and programmes that will instil the values and traditions of falconry among the youth and future generations. The event calendar and development plans of the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club were also discussed, with plans to enhance equestrian, shooting, and golf activities, reinforcing Al Ain Region’s status as a leading sports and leisure destination. H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan further emphasized the importance of “accelerating the implementation of development plans and projects within clear programmes and timelines,” as well as strengthening collaboration and coordination among relevant entities to help build an integrated sports ecosystem. He highlighted the goal of aligning these efforts with the highest standards and consolidating Al Ain’s position as a preferred destination for local, regional, and global sporting events and championships. Officials from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Emirates Falconers’ Club, Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club, and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club expressed deep appreciation for H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s continued support, reaffirming their commitment to advancing development projects that will provide a modern and supportive sports environment for all segments of society, keeping pace with the rapid growth of the sports sector in the Al Ain Region. Team V.4-EM-UAE