Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, has reaffirmed Dubai’s commitment to the sports sector’s growth. The emirate is focusing on enhancing sports infrastructure and expanding its reach across all societal segments.
According to Emirates News Agency, the 13th edition of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament has commenced, organized by the Dubai Sports Council under the directives and patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This year’s tournament has attracted over 11,000 athletes, marking its largest edition yet.
The tournament is scheduled to take place at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex from 18 February to 7 March 2026. Athletes will participate in 11 different events, including international competitions with elite athletes from around the world.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor emphasized the leadership’s support for the growth of various sectors. He stated that Dubai continues to attra
ct and host diverse sporting events and pioneering sports initiatives, reflecting a future-focused vision and sustainable development efforts.
The Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament is of significant importance due to its connection to the Nad Al Sheba area and its heritage. It coincides annually with the Holy Month of Ramadan, attracting athletes from the UAE and beyond for its competitive environment and vibrant atmosphere.
This year’s schedule includes competitions in volleyball, padel, wheelchair basketball, cycling, road running, fencing, badminton, 3×3 basketball, tug-of-war, obstacle course, and jiu-jitsu. The International Padel Federation Silver Cup for men and women is the tournament’s opening event, taking place until February 22 on state-of-the-art indoor padel courts.
Following this, the Nad Al Sheba International Padel Championship will feature top Arab and international teams from 23 to 27 February, with local junior ranking competitions from 28 February to 6 March. The fencing championship will
occur from 19 to 20 February, with international and local competitions.
A 74-km cycling race is set for 21 and 22 February, open to citizens and residents, including amateur cyclists and club members aged 19 and above, following UAE Cycling Federation rules. The badminton championship will take place on 22 and 23 February, open to all participants and adhering to Badminton World Federation rules.
The Jiu-Jitsu championship is scheduled for 24 and 25 February, featuring local and international players. The Obstacle Challenge Championship will run from 20 to 24 February, promising intense competition.
Road running races will occur on February 27 at Al Meydan track, with 10-km, 5-km, and 4-km events. The 3×3 basketball competition returns from 19 February to 6 March, set to boost the tournament’s atmosphere.
The tug-of-war tournament will be held from 1 to 6 March, and wheelchair basketball competitions commence on 24 February. The volleyball tournament will conclude the annual sporting event, with the fina
l match on March 7.
