Education
H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi Attends UAE School Games Football, Commends High Level of Competition
Event Strengthens UAE’s National Sports Strategy 2031 and Olympic Talent Development
His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, attended the football competition at the second edition of the UAE School Games, where he praised the exceptional talent and high-level competition among student teams from various emirates. The event is a key initiative aimed at identifying and nurturing young sports talents to elevate the UAE’s presence in global sporting events.
Schools: The Foundation for Future Olympic Champions
Speaking at the event, H.E. Dr. Al Falasi emphasized the critical role of schools as incubators of national sports talents and the foundation for developing future Olympic champions.
"Schools play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Emirati athletes who can compete internationally and bring home championships. The UAE School Games serves as a key platform in realizing the objectives of the National Sports Strategy 2031 by fostering young talent, increasing the number of professional Emirati athletes, and promoting a culture of sports excellence," he stated.
UAE School Games: A Multi-Sport Platform for Excellence
Organized by the UAE Sports Federation for School and University Education Institutions in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Education, the UAE National Olympic Committee, and other sports federations, the championship features 12 sports competitions, including:
- Jiu-jitsu, laser shooting, judo, athletics, badminton, archery, and football in the first phase.
- Swimming, fencing, taekwondo, table tennis, and chess in the second phase, leading up to the finals in May 2025.
Football Competition Showcases UAE’s Young Athletic Talent
Currently held at the UAE Football Association stadiums in Al Khawaneej, Dubai, the football competition has brought together school teams under the guidance of expert coaches and officials, fostering an environment of intense competition.
H.E. Dr. Al Falasi noted that the championship is instrumental in advancing the UAE’s Olympic movement, creating a supportive ecosystem that integrates sports within the academic framework.
"This initiative strengthens collaboration between sports and education sectors, ensuring that young athletes receive the right support to excel both academically and athletically. By providing them with opportunities to compete on international platforms, we are building a strong foundation for the UAE’s sporting future," he added.
Aligning with the ‘Year of Community’ and National Development Goals
The UAE School Games aligns with the ‘Year of Community’ initiative, reinforcing leadership efforts to build a healthy, active society. By integrating sports into education, the championship contributes to a sustainable and competitive sports culture, positioning the UAE as a leader in global athletics.
As the second edition of the UAE School Games progresses, students continue to showcase outstanding skill and determination, further strengthening Dubai’s vision for youth sports excellence and Olympic aspirations.