Photo Credit : WAM
H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, received a delegation from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club to review upcoming initiatives aimed at further developing the sports sector across Al Ain Region.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hazza was briefed on the Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s plans to expand sporting activities in the region, including hosting championships and competitions, increasing participation among different segments of the community, and supporting traditional and heritage sports.
The delegation also outlined a number of upcoming events planned for Al Ain, including running races, half marathons and community sporting activities. The region is also set to host stages of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and a round of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge.
Representatives of Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club provided an overview of the club’s programmes and initiatives focused on preserving falconry as an important part of Emirati cultural heritage.
Sheikh Hazza was also briefed on the Arabian Saluki Championship programme, which aims to promote awareness of the traditional sport and help preserve it for future generations.
Sheikh Hazza stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen Al Ain Region’s sports ecosystem in line with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
He highlighted sport’s role in supporting community development, improving quality of life and encouraging residents to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles.
Sheikh Hazza also called for greater emphasis on community sporting events in support of the objectives of the Year of Family, encouraging families to participate together in a wider range of activities.
He further underlined the importance of heritage sports in strengthening the connection between younger generations and the UAE’s national identity, traditions and cultural heritage.
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Undersecretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in Al Ain Region; Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club; Majid Ali Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Emirates Falconers’ Club; Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council; Sultan Ibrahim Al Mahmoud, Executive Director and Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club; Rashed Musabbeh Al Manei, Director General of Al Ain City Municipality; and several other officials.
