Abu Dhabi has made sports history with a dazzling opening ceremony for its first University Games Championship, uniting young athletes, sports officials, and an enthusiastic crowd of over 2,500 at the International Tennis Centre.
Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho was among the distinguished guests, adding star power to the landmark event that promises to foster a vibrant sports culture among Emirati youth.
The ceremony, held on Tuesday, 5 November, marked the beginning of a pioneering chapter in UAE sports.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa bin Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Vice President of the National Olympic Committee, attended alongside Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, and several other prominent figures from the UAE’s sports and academic community. This high-profile attendance underscores the UAE’s commitment to promoting university sports.
University Games Championship
Organised by the UAE School and University Sports Federation in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Entertainment Company (ADEC) and the Ministry of Sports, the University Games aim to transform youth sports in the UAE. The championship aligns with the UAE’s National Sports Strategy 2031, which envisions the country as a regional and global leader in sports by cultivating young talent and fostering a strong foundation for youth sports.
“University Games represent a crucial step in the development of Emirati sports,” stated Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, during the ceremony. “Our commitment to school and university games stems from our strong belief in the role of educational institutions in the discovery and development of athletic talents,” he added.
Dh3.4M in incentives
Highlighting the UAE’s dedication to encouraging young athletes, organisers announced Dh3.4 million in financial incentives and rewards for University Games participants. This funding aims to provide resources and motivation for student athletes, allowing them to pursue their sports ambitions and develop their skills. By investing in its youth, the UAE hopes to inspire future champions who will represent the nation on international platforms.
The ceremony also featured the official draw to determine team matchups, which sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead. Over 1,100 male and female athletes from 28 universities will compete in six tournaments across three main sports: football, basketball, and volleyball. The championship will run from November 2024 through February 2025, culminating in a grand closing ceremony where the winning teams will be honoured.
Ronaldinho at University Games
The presence of Ronaldinho, the celebrated Brazilian football icon, electrified the audience. Known for his illustrious career with the Brazilian national team and Barcelona, Ronaldinho praised the UAE’s commitment to developing university sports and nurturing young talent. He shared his admiration for the championship, emphasising that initiatives like these are essential for creating future sports champions.
“Seeing such strong support for university sports is truly inspiring,” Ronaldinho remarked. His presence further underscored the global attention that the UAE’s sports initiatives continue to attract.
Future editions
Future editions of the University Games are set to grow, with plans to include additional teams and sports. This expansion will deepen the competitive spirit among university athletes and offer a broader platform for young talents. These developments are aligned with the UAE’s ambition to become a premier destination for sports, where athletes of all ages have access to competitive opportunities.
As Dr. Al Falasi highlighted, the University Games are not only about competition but also about “fostering a culture of sportsmanship” and social cohesion, helping build a strong community around sports and empowering the UAE’s youth.
A promising new era
The University Games Championship is a first-of-its-kind initiative in the UAE, bringing together students from diverse backgrounds and universities across the nation. With 105 teams competing and new opportunities for youth athletes, the event sets a strong foundation for Emirati sports. Organisers are optimistic that the championship will become a national tradition, helping position the UAE as a leader in youth sports and supporting the growth of a thriving sports ecosystem.
With the participation of local leaders, international stars, and passionate young athletes, the University Games Championship represents a powerful step towards realising the UAE’s sporting vision.