Dubai: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the seventh edition of Dubai Games continued on 14 February at Dubai Festival City, with Day 3 featuring one heat for the women's Battle of the Government and two heats for Battle of the Cities.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event was held in Official Partnership with DP World; Diamond Partnership with DAMAC, Beyond Developments, and Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat). Dubai Games challenged participants with a seven-obstacle course that demanded high levels of endurance, physical fitness, strategic thinking, and coordinated teamwork. The heats progressed with a fast, competitive pace as athletes raced against the clock to finish within narrow time margins, adding further excitement to the event.
Day 3 began with one heat for the Battle of the Government (Women), where 147 athletes from 21 teams representing local and federal government entities competed for four final places. The Ministry of Defence team secured a top spot with 128.34 points, followed by the Ministry of Education with 106.56 points, the Dubai Health team with 102.39 points, and the Dubai Police team with 99.29 points. The teams demonstrated discipline, tactical precision, and teamwork, overcoming obstacles requiring both physical and mental endurance.
Dubai Games continues to reinforce its position as a leading platform for team challenge sports. The Battle of the Cities marked its largest edition since its launch three years ago, with 56 cities competing in 2026. Participating cities had the opportunity to earn bonus points in the Burj Challenge, a unique test to ascend 160 floors of the Burj Khalifa.
Easa Al Gurg, Group CEO of the Al Gurg Group, expressed commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance quality of life in Dubai. Mohammed Daoud, General Manager at Unilabs Middle East, highlighted the event's role in promoting community health and an active lifestyle. Manea Alkindi from DEWA emphasized the event's alignment with DEWA's commitment to social responsibility.
Aber Al Abdeen, from the Dubai Games 2026 Organising Committee, underscored the significance of the Battle of the Government in inspiring government sector employees. Khadijah Mahrous, also from the Organising Committee, highlighted the global standing of the Battle of the Cities, reflecting confidence in the standards and delivery of Dubai Games.
Dubai Games 2026 is held from 12th to 15th February under the slogan 'Unite, Ignite, Battle,' in partnership with various private and public-sector partners. The tournament is supported by sponsors including Dubai Festival City, Al-Futtaim Automotive, First Abu Dhabi Bank, du, Red Bull, Mai Dubai, and others, alongside Dubai Health, Dubai Ambulance, Dubai Police, and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
