Ministry of Sports Launches UAE Obstacle Sports Federation under the Chairmanship of H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb
Establishing the Federation aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to diversify national sports and reflects our commitment to developing organisational and technical frameworks that support the Federation’s objectives.
H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb: We aim to build a comprehensive institutional ecosystem that advances obstacle sports regionally while positioning the UAE as a destination for major international championships.
UAE, October 6, 2025: The Ministry of Sports has announced the establishment of the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation, the official governing body responsible for organising, regulating, and developing obstacle sports across the nation. The new Federation aims to promote this dynamic and challenging discipline, known for combining strength, agility, endurance, and mental resilience, while elevating the UAE’s presence in the global sports arena.
Obstacle sports—comprising disciplines such as OCR (Obstacle Course Racing), Adventure, Ninja, Callisthenics, and Obstacle Racing—are now practiced in over 77 countries, including 30 nations in Asia. The UAE Federation will operate under the umbrella of the International Obstacle Sports Federation, headquartered in Switzerland, joining four other continental federations.
His Excellency Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, congratulated the newly appointed Board of Directors, led by H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb, on this important milestone. He noted that the creation of the Federation represents a significant step in diversifying the UAE’s sporting landscape and empowering athletes to explore emerging sports.
“The establishment of the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation supports our efforts to expand the nation’s sports portfolio and promote an active, healthy lifestyle. By developing strong organisational and technical structures, we aim to nurture local talent, attract international events, and position the UAE as a global hub for sports excellence,” said H.E. Dr Al Falasi.
He added that the inclusion of obstacle sports in upcoming school and university games will serve as a key initiative to encourage youth participation, discover new talents, and create a sustainable foundation for the sport’s growth in the UAE.
On behalf of the Federation’s Board, H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb, President of the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation, expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Sports and H.E. Dr Al Falasi for their trust and support.
“We are honoured to lead this newly established Federation and look forward to building a strong institutional framework that promotes obstacle sports among all community segments. Our goal is to enhance public fitness, nurture emerging athletes, and represent the UAE proudly on international platforms,” said H.E. Abu Al Shawareb.
He further emphasized the Federation’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Sports and relevant national and international organisations to host local, regional, and global competitions that meet world-class standards.
With its establishment, the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation marks a new chapter in the nation’s sporting development—one that combines innovation, inclusivity, and global ambition to reinforce the UAE’s leadership in the international sports community.
