His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, welcomed Gianni Infantino, president of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA). Mr. Infantino’s visit to the UAE was in connection with his attendance at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup tournament, which is being held from 15-25 February 2024.
Read more: FIFA’s revenue exceeded $7.5 billion over past 4 years
The meeting took place at Qasr Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi and focused on discussing the collaborative relationship between the UAE and FIFA, particularly in the organization of global sports tournaments. The participants also explored ways to further support and enhance this cooperation in the future.
Discussion highlights
The discussions encompassed various aspects of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup UAE 2024 Dubai, including the factors that contributed to its success. Key topics discussed during the event included the quality of infrastructure and organization. Another important aspect was the effective collaboration between local entities and FIFA.
HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the UAE’s dedication to sports as a vital component of its comprehensive and sustainable development vision. He underscored the significant role that global sports events play. These events foster mutual understanding and build bridges worldwide. They are especially impactful among young people. Mr. Infantino stated that such events enrich their values and promote a competitive spirit.
In addition, Mr. Infantino expressed his gratitude for the strong cooperation and coordination between the UAE and FIFA. He also commended the UAE’s advanced sports infrastructure, which positions the country as a prime destination for hosting major international sporting events.
Notable figures in attendance
According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Majlis (meeting) was attended by several prominent figures, including H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s representative in Al Dhafra Region; H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation; H.H. lieutenant general Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister and minister of the Interior.
Moreover, notable figures who graced the occasion included H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO); H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of the Office of Development and Martyrs Families Affairs at the Presidential Court; Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, president of the UAE Football Association (UAEFA).
Attendees also included Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, advisor for Special Affairs at the Presidential Court; Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, vice-President of the National Olympic Committee and the Chairman of the Supreme Local Organizing Committee for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup; Mohammed Abdullah Hazzam Al Dhaheri, secretary-general of the UAE Football Association (UAEFA) and the CEO of the Beach Soccer World Cup Local Organizing Committee. Additionally, several sheikhs, officials, guests, and citizens were in attendance.
Gianni Infantino honored with Sports Personality Award in Dubai
Furthermore, in January 2024, Mr. Infantino was bestowed the esteemed International Sports Personality of the Year accolade. The prestigious award was presented to him at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Awards ceremony in Dubai. This event was established in 2009. Its aim is to acknowledge remarkable accomplishments in the field of sports. Also, it draws inspiration from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s deep passion for athletic pursuits.
For more miscellaneous news, click here.
