Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, witnessed the inauguration of the 'National Service Athlete Programme'. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Sports.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is crafted to assist elite Emirati athletes enrolled in national service by integrating them into specialized sports programmes. This initiative ensures that athletes can continue their training and skill enhancement during their service. It also allows them to participate in competitions that affect their international standings or qualifications for significant global tournaments.
The launch event was organized by the Ministry of Sports, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, and was attended by Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, and Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed interacted with recruits who are part of the programme's initial cohort.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the national priority of supporting elite athletes, aligning it with the UAE leadership's vision of empowering Emiratis in all sectors, including sports. He highlighted the role of sports in character building and enhancing the nation's global profile by nurturing young talent. Sheikh Hamdan stated, "Athletes are our ambassadors on the global stage. We are committed to creating an environment that enables them to thrive."
He further added that the programme reflects a collaborative spirit between government entities to support high-performing athletes, discover new talent, and develop champions representing the UAE. "This programme lays the foundation for a long-term strategic pathway that advances our national vision," Sheikh Hamdan remarked.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi commented on the programme's significance in developing national sports and supporting elite athletes' physical readiness during national service. He noted that the programme contributes to the 'National Sports Strategy 2031' goals, promoting physical activity among Emirati youth and enhancing their athletic and professional capabilities.
Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei expressed the commitment to channel the youth's potential into paths beneficial to the country. The programme provides an enabling environment for elite athletes to progress in their sport while fulfilling their national duties. He also highlighted the initiative's role in identifying new talent among national service recruits, blending military discipline with athletic excellence.
The programme signifies a strategic milestone in mobilizing national capabilities for the country's service. It aims to maintain and improve the athletic performance of Emirati athletes during their service, enabling their participation in external competitions. Technical teams will conduct assessments and regular evaluations to identify emerging talent.
The programme fosters collaboration to optimize the performance of national service recruits, helping uncover their full athletic potential. The inaugural cohort includes athletes set to represent the UAE in major events such as the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026 and the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028, spanning disciplines like fencing, equestrian, archery, athletics, and combat sports.
A joint committee, comprising representatives from the Ministry of Sports, the Ministry of Defence, and other stakeholders, will oversee the programme's implementation. The committee will meet regularly to monitor progress and ensure alignment with strategic goals.