Abu Dhabi is set to host the "Sheikh Zayed Ramadan Tournament," launching this Monday under the auspices of the Higher Organizing Committee and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and sponsored by the Emirates National Bank of Dubai. Running until March 19, this tournament is poised to be one of the largest and most significant Ramadan sports events across the UAE. The organizing committee anticipates broad participation from various segments of the community.
The initiative aims to reinforce Sheikh Zayed's status as a prime venue for major Ramadan sports events, fostering physical activity culture among community members. With ten sports featured, including seven-a-side football, paddle tennis, beach football, running, cycling, tug-of-war, kickball, table tennis, and chess, the tournament will appeal to the diverse interests of participants.
Participants and spectators will benefit from daily draws and instant gifts as part of the event, recognizing their involvement and support. The organizing committee highlights the provision of a comprehensive sporting and recreational environment, which aligns challenge with enjoyment through engaging competitions aimed at boosting community interaction with sports.
Financial prizes surpassing one million dirhams will be awarded, promoting competitive spirit and encouraging widespread participation. Events are scheduled daily from 9:00 PM to 2:00 AM during weekends, ensuring all community members have the opportunity to join the festivities within a unique Ramadan sports atmosphere.
The Emirates National Bank of Dubai's sponsorship signifies its commitment to fostering sporting talent and reinforcing the idea of sports as a lifestyle. This aligns with the goals of enhancing community interaction and sports tourism, fortifying the UAE's standing as a global sports destination.
The organizing committee announced plans to share the competition schedule and registration criteria soon, ensuring activities are well-structured to meet the objectives of stimulating community participation and cultivating competitive values reflective of sporting spirit.
Financial allocations for the tournament include 180,000 dirhams for seven-a-side football, 60,000 dirhams each for paddle and beach football, 127,000 dirhams for the running race, and 113,000 dirhams for the cycling event. Traditional games will receive significant funding as well, including 155,000 dirhams for tug-of-war and Al Matara, 35,000 for kickball, table tennis, and chess respectively. Visitors can also partake in recreational competitions, offering them chances to win cash and other prizes.
The overarching goal of the tournament is to establish sports as part of a healthy lifestyle and to stimulate social interactions through sports, all the typical characteristics associated with the holy month. Abdullah Al Muhairi, member of the Higher Committee, noted the tournament’s role as pivotal for enhancing sports culture and encouraging physical activity among community members. He expressed excitement for the opportunities available to diverse groups to engage interactively during the Ramadan season, emphasizing the tournament as one of the foremost events blending fun, competition, and entertainment.
"The Sheikh Zayed Ramadan Tournament receives extensive interest, as we aim to promote sports as a lifestyle and create encouraging competitive environments for various age groups," said Al Muhairi. The event will undoubtedly provide visitors with rich sporting experiences, merging skills, enthusiasm, and the competitive sporting spirit within one of the region's premier cultural and heritage festivals.
On similar notes, Aref Al Awani, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, stressed the importance of organizing this tournament alongside the festival. He highlighted the council’s commitment to initiatives enhancing healthy lifestyles and encouraging community physical activities within competitive and enjoyable settings. Al Awani noted, "The tournament serves as both an opportunity for amateurs and professionals to showcase their skills and celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship and community engagement during this significant time of year."
Participants and attendees can anticipate not just competition but also a festive celebration highlighting the unity of the community through sport, centered around the ideals espoused by Sheikh Zayed.