The UAE recently concluded the inaugural Gulf Youth Games, a sporting event that brought together around 3,500 male and female athletes from across the region. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, and President of the Gulf Youth Games, expressed his commitment to supporting the growth and development of the sports sector in the Gulf and beyond.
The event, which took place from 16 April to 2 May, featured 24 different individual and team sports spread across 41 events. With the participation of 300 volunteers and coverage from 100 media personnel, the Gulf Youth Games showcased the talent and sportsmanship of young athletes in the region.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed praised the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for their support in launching the Gulf Youth Games. He highlighted the unity and sportsmanship displayed by all athletes during the event and commended the teams and volunteers who made it a success.
The UAE emerged as the top medal winner, securing a total of 296 medals, including 96 gold, 103 silver, and 97 bronze. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman also put up impressive performances, showcasing the depth of talent in Gulf sports.
The Games featured a wide range of sports, including football, swimming, judo, boxing, cycling, track and field, sailing, jiu-jitsu, and more. The event was held across five emirates in the UAE, highlighting the country’s commitment to promoting sports and providing opportunities for young athletes to excel.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed congratulated all the winners and expressed his hope that the outcomes of the Gulf Youth Games will lead to significant advancements in Gulf sports. He also praised the UAE for its excellence in organizing and hosting major events, solidifying its position as a leading sports destination with world-class facilities and infrastructure.
The success of the inaugural Gulf Youth Games not only showcased the talent of young athletes in the region but also demonstrated the UAE’s dedication to fostering sports development and promoting the Olympic Movement. With the support of leaders like HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed and the guidance of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the future of sports in the Gulf looks bright.