The UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting the sports sector and young Emirati sporting talents, developing their skills and capabilities, and harnessing all available resources to empower them to achieve sporting excellence at regional and international levels.
His Highness noted that advancing the sports sector is a central component of the UAE’s broader development vision, both now and in the future.
First Emirati woman to earn Grandmaster title
The UAE President made these remarks during a reception at Qasr Al Bahr in Abu Dhabi, where he met with Rouda Essa Al Serkal, a member of the UAE national chess team and Abu Dhabi Chess Club & Mind Games.
The meeting marked Al Serkal’s recent triumph at the Arab Chess Championship, where she secured the title of Grandmaster – the first Emirati woman to earn this prestigious international designation – and her qualification for the Chess World Cup finals.
The President congratulated Rouda Al Serkal on this remarkable achievement, describing it as a valuable addition to the UAE’s record of accomplishments in chess. He wished her continued success in her upcoming participation in the World Cup and praised the determination and perseverance she has demonstrated since an early age.
For her part, Rouda Al Serkal expressed her joy at meeting Sheikh Mohamed and conveyed her gratitude for the support and encouragement she has received. She also highlighted the significant role this backing has played in her journey, adding that she is proud to be the first Emirati woman to earn the title of Grandmaster, a milestone that reflects the leadership’s vision to empower Emirati women and enable them to realize their ambitions across all fields.
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Region’s sports market to grow 8.7 percent
The Middle East’s sports industry is in an exciting, transformative phase, reshaping the regional and global sporting landscape. From Qatar’s successful hosting of the Men’s 2022 FIFA World Cup to Saudi Arabia’s selection as host of the 2034 tournament, the region continues to make bold strides in establishing itself as a premier destination for major sporting events.
According to PWC, the region’s sports market is projected to grow at an impressive rate of 8.7 percent over the next three to five years, outpacing the global average of 7.3 percent. This growth will be fuelled by significant investments in premium sports properties and infrastructure, alongside ambitious initiatives to increase grassroots participation and develop local talent.
In line with its commitment to advance its sports sector, the UAE is heavily investing in infrastructure. The nation is creating the region’s first indoor velodrome and the world’s largest wave pool. The report reveals that combat sports have also gained traction in the region, with the UAE hosting over five UFC events since 2021 and Saudi Arabia hosting more than seven major boxing events.
In the UAE, women’s sports achievements have also been impressive, with female athletes securing 335 medals across 70 championships during the 23-2022 season.
“Empowering women is essential in business, education and sport. Advancing women’s participation in sport breaks down barriers, drives progress in other sectors, and reshapes perceptions. It fosters equality, unlocks growth and promotes leadership, creating an inclusive society where talent is recognized regardless of gender,” said Mona AbouHana, Partner, PwC’s chief people officer – EMEA and Middle East.
