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Vladyslava Garkusha News 29 October 2025

Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 Set to Turn the City into an Open-Air Gym

Dubai is gearing up for the ninth edition of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), launching November 1 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The annual initiative encourages residents and visitors to commit to 30 minutes of daily physical activity for 30 days, with the goal of making Dubai one of the world’s most active cities.

Running through November 30, DFC 2025 carries the theme “Find Your Challenge,” offering a month-long program of free workouts, sports events, and wellness sessions across the city. The schedule includes four flagship events — Dubai Ride (Nov. 2), Dubai Stand Up Paddle (Nov. 8–9), Dubai Run (Nov. 23), and Dubai Yoga (Nov. 30) — alongside three major Fitness Villages at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park, and Al Warqa’a Park, plus over 25 community hubs in neighbourhoods across Dubai.

His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of the Dubai Sports Council, said the initiative has evolved into a “citywide movement that transforms lives and strengthens communities.” Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, called it a celebration of “movement and connection,” aligning with the UAE’s Year of Community.

DFC will also coincide with major international sporting events, including the Dubai Premier Padel P1, Dubai T100 Triathlon, DP World Tour Championship, and Emirates Dubai 7s, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global hub for sport and wellness.

Organised by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Sports Council, with support from DP World, Dubai Municipality, Mai Dubai, and the Roads and Transport Authority, DFC 2025 aims to inspire lasting healthy habits and community participation citywide.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 29 October 2025

Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025 Set to Turn the City into an Open-Air Gym

Emirates Marks 30 Years of Service to Nairobi

Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, is marking three decades of operations to Nairobi, underscoring its enduring role in strengthening air connectivity between Kenya and the global market. Since its inaugural flight in October 1995, the Dubai-based carrier has transported more than 6.6 million passengers to and from the Kenyan capital on over 34,000 flights.

Currently operating double daily Boeing 777 services, Emirates links Nairobi to more than 145 destinations across six continents, serving both business and leisure travelers. Passenger traffic between Kenya and major markets in Asia, Australasia and North America remains robust, with routes connecting Nairobi to cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, Sydney, Melbourne, New York and Washington.

In 2023, Emirates expanded its regional footprint through an interline partnership with Kenya Airways, offering customers streamlined connections on a single ticket across East Africa. Since its launch, over 31,000 passengers have used the partnership, with destinations including Rwanda, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique and Burundi proving especially popular.

“Nairobi has long been one of the busiest destinations in our African network,” said Christophe Leloup, Emirates’ Country Manager for Kenya. “For 30 years, we’ve invested steadily in our operations to deliver our signature world-class service and to support Kenya’s growth as a leading economic and tourism hub.”

Earlier this year, Emirates opened Africa’s first Emirates World retail store in Nairobi. Located on Riverside Drive, the modern facility offers customers travel planning services, interactive displays and an immersive experience reflecting the airline’s latest retail concept.

Emirates continues to be the only carrier serving Kenya with private First Class suites, and offers competitive baggage allowances and regionally inspired cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs. Its inflight entertainment system features over 6,500 channels, including Kenyan films, television and music.

Kenya and the United Arab Emirates strengthened their long-standing trade relations this year with the signing of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Emirates SkyCargo supports this relationship through freight services that include three weekly dedicated freighters to Nairobi, transporting high-value exports such as fresh flowers. In 2024 alone, the airline moved more than 16,000 tonnes of Kenyan cut flowers to markets worldwide within 24 hours of harvest.

Emirates employs more than 1,100 Kenyans across its global network, including 254 cabin crew and 41 pilots. The airline also supports local social initiatives through the Emirates Airline Foundation, which funds programs for children in need, including partnerships with the Little Prince Nursery and Primary School, Alfajiri Street Kids, and the Starehe Boys’ Centre.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 29 October 2025

Emirates Marks 30 Years of Service to Nairobi

Nakheel Expands Palm Jebel Ali Vision With Palm Central Private Residences

Nakheel, part of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has announced the launch of Palm Central Private Residences, a new development on Palm Jebel Ali aimed at advancing the island’s resort-style residential offering. The project is located along the island’s central spine between Fronds M and N and represents a shift toward community-focused living within one of Dubai’s most prominent coastal destinations.

The development comprises 212 residences across three mid-rise buildings, including one- to five-bedroom apartments and signature penthouses with private pools. Each unit is designed to emphasize space, natural light and the integration of indoor and outdoor living. Residents will have access to landscaped courtyards, wellness areas and communal lounges intended to balance privacy and social connection.

“Palm Jebel Ali advances Dubai’s vision for people-centred waterfront living,” said Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate. “With Palm Central Private Residences, we bring resort living into the everyday, creating a central neighbourhood where homes, wellness, learning, retail and worship sit within a short walk.”

Palm Central Private Residences follows the earlier release of the Palm Jebel Ali Beach and Coral Collection villas, designed in collaboration with international architects. While those projects emphasize exclusive coastal living, the new residences extend the island’s appeal through a more connected and accessible community layout.

The wider Palm Jebel Ali development includes plans for a 9,000-square-meter retail center and a mosque designed by architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The mosque, accommodating up to 1,000 worshippers, features contemporary design elements that reinterpret traditional Islamic architecture with a focus on light and reflection.

Spanning 13.4 kilometers and encompassing seven interconnected islands, Palm Jebel Ali includes 16 fronds and over 90 kilometers of coastline. The project aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, incorporating sustainable design principles and walkable spaces to foster a modern, mixed-use community.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 29 October 2025

Nakheel Expands Palm Jebel Ali Vision With Palm Central Private Residences

Eaton Begins Construction of Sustainable Manufacturing and Engineering Center in Dubai

Eaton, a global leader in intelligent power management, has begun construction of a new sustainable manufacturing and engineering facility in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The project, developed in partnership with the Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), represents a major investment in advanced manufacturing and sustainable industrial growth in the region.

Spanning 36,000 square meters, the site will open in 2026 and is expected to create more than 700 jobs, including positions in engineering, research and development, and advanced manufacturing. The facility will serve as a regional hub for producing electrical and electronic components used in data centers, utilities, and commercial infrastructure across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Eaton said the project aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to position the emirate as a global center for advanced, sustainable manufacturing. “Our latest advanced manufacturing and engineering center will enable Eaton to meet growing demand for safe, efficient, and sustainable power solutions,” said Paulo Ruiz, Eaton’s Chief Executive Officer.

The facility will integrate 20 Industry 4.0 technologies, including artificial intelligence, to advance automation and operational efficiency. Designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, the site incorporates renewable energy systems and energy-efficient processes to minimize environmental impact.

Dubai officials described Eaton’s investment as a reflection of the city’s growing appeal as a global industrial hub. “Eaton’s investment reinforces Dubai’s emergence as a center for advanced manufacturing, powered by high-skilled talent and world-class infrastructure,” said Hadi Badri, Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation.

Jafza, operated by DP World, continues to attract international manufacturers seeking access to Dubai’s logistics and trade ecosystem. “We’re proud to welcome Eaton to Jafza as part of Dubai’s strategy to lead in advanced manufacturing,” said Abdulla Bin Damithan, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of DP World GCC.

The initiative underscores Dubai’s broader industrial goals, including a target to add $5 billion to the local industrial economy by 2030. With more than 700 manufacturing companies from 73 countries already operating in Jafza, the zone remains central to Dubai’s plans for sustainable economic diversification and innovation-driven growth.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 29 October 2025

Eaton Begins Construction of Sustainable Manufacturing and Engineering Center in Dubai

Dubai Sports Council Launches Record-Breaking Football Academies Tournament

The Dubai Sports Council (DSC) has inaugurated the latest edition of the Dubai Open Football Academies Tournament (DOFA), in collaboration with the UAE Football Association and in partnership with Delta Aid Sport. The initiative forms part of the Council’s ongoing efforts to develop young athletic talent and reinforce Dubai’s role as a global sports hub.

This year’s tournament is the largest in its history, featuring 12,000 players - both male and female - forming 558 teams from 117 academies. The competition includes 40 girls’ teams and spans age groups from 6 to 23 years old. Participants represent academies from across all Emirates.

The event reflects steady growth, with a 9.1 percent increase in player participation and an 11.6 percent rise in team entries compared with last year’s edition, which involved 11,000 players and 500 teams from 100 academies. Matches are organized under a single-round league system, culminating in a Super Cup for top group winners. Competitions will take place throughout the sports season at nine venues, including Dubai Sports City, to ensure broad access for participants.

The DOFA Tournament is part of DSC’s broader strategy to nurture young talent, develop professional athletes, and strengthen Dubai’s position as a center for sports and human development. Facilities and infrastructure have been prepared to meet international standards of safety and professionalism, providing participants with opportunities to improve skills, gain competitive experience, and embrace teamwork and fair play.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 28 October 2025

Dubai Sports Council Launches Record-Breaking Football Academies Tournament

Dubai Streamlines Self-Build Permits for Emirati Villas

Dubai Municipality has authorized a select group of engineering consultancy offices to issue instant self-build permits for Emirati villas, in a move aimed at accelerating residential development and improving public services for citizens.

The initiative allows accredited consultancies to issue villa permits directly, eliminating the need for prior municipal engineer review. The change is designed to simplify the homebuilding process for Emiratis, saving time and administrative effort while maintaining compliance with the emirate’s regulatory standards.

According to the Municipality, each accredited office met strict technical and regulatory benchmarks to qualify for participation. The list of approved consultancies will expand in future phases, broadening citizens’ options and supporting the emirate’s goal of improving housing service delivery.

Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, CEO of the Building Regulation and Permits Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the program marks a major step in facilitating self-build housing. “By offering a flexible, one-stop solution for villa construction, we are helping citizens build homes that reflect their needs while ensuring quality and sustainability,” she said.

Under the new system, citizens can apply for permits through accredited offices, which verify compliance with the Dubai Building Code and local planning regulations before processing applications via Dubai’s Building Platform. Once the permit is issued, the consultant appoints a contractor to begin construction.

Key regulations governing the system include adherence to structural and design standards under the Dubai Building Code, cost-efficiency requirements to prevent overdesign, and compliance with land use, height, and parking rules.

Dubai Municipality said the initiative reflects its ongoing efforts to enhance service quality, streamline housing-related procedures, and support Emirati families in building high-quality, well-designed homes that meet national urban development goals.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 28 October 2025

Dubai Streamlines Self-Build Permits for Emirati Villas

Avia Solutions Group to Establish Regional Headquarters at Dubai South

Dubai South’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) announced that Avia Solutions Group (ASG), the Dublin-based aviation services company and the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, will set up its new regional headquarters within the aerospace hub. The move marks a significant step in ASG’s global expansion strategy and underscores Dubai’s growing role as a center for aviation innovation and services.

The new facility, scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2027, will accommodate up to 800 professionals and serve as a regional and global collaboration hub for the company. The site will feature modern offices, meeting facilities, and shared services supporting ASG’s operations in ACMI leasing, cargo charters, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and aviation insurance.

In addition, the complex will include an Agentic AI innovation hub - a first-of-its-kind initiative by ASG aimed at attracting international talent and advancing digital transformation in aviation.

H.E. Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, said the decision reinforces Dubai’s position as a destination for multinational corporations seeking to expand in the Middle East. “Welcoming Avia Solutions Group to Dubai South strengthens the emirate’s standing as a global aviation capital, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,” he said.

Gediminas Ziemelis, Founder and Chairman of Avia Solutions Group, described MBRAH as “one of the most advanced and integrated aviation ecosystems in the world,” adding that the new headquarters will help the company meet regional demand, attract skilled professionals, and enhance global efficiency.

Avia Solutions Group employs more than 14,000 professionals and operates a fleet of 209 aircraft across six continents. Its portfolio spans aircraft leasing, maintenance, ground handling, pilot training, charter operations, and aviation media and events.

Located within Dubai South, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub provides a dedicated ecosystem for aerospace and aviation businesses, including airlines, MROs, and private aviation companies. The hub aims to advance Dubai’s long-term goal of becoming a leading global aviation hub.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Vladyslava Garkusha News 28 October 2025

Avia Solutions Group to Establish Regional Headquarters at Dubai South

UAE Team Emirates XRG Honored at Emirates Group Headquarters Following Record-Breaking Season

Fresh off a landmark season on the global cycling circuit, UAE Team Emirates XRG arrived in Dubai this week for a celebratory visit to the Emirates Group Headquarters. The stop marked the team’s first following their return from competition and underscored the close partnership between Emirates Airline and the UAE-based cycling team.

Led by world number one and four-time Tour de France champion Tadej Pogačar, the delegation included João Almeida, ranked fifth globally, alongside Florian Vermeersch, Jay Vine, Johnatan Narváez, and Tim Wellens. Team CEO Mauro Gianetti also attended. Emirates Airline President Sir Tim Clark welcomed the riders and congratulated them on a season defined by record victories and international acclaim.

Employees of Emirates, many of whom are cycling enthusiasts, met the athletes and celebrated the team’s accomplishments, reflecting the airline’s continuing commitment to sports development and national representation.

Emirates has served as co-title sponsor of UAE Team Emirates XRG since the team’s establishment in 2017 and renewed its partnership earlier this year.

To conclude the season, the team will take part in a community ride on Al Hudayriat Island on October 30, 2025.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 28 October 2025

UAE Team Emirates XRG Honored at Emirates Group Headquarters Following Record-Breaking Season

The Dubai Museum of Art: A New Chapter in the City’s Cultural Evolution

In a defining moment for Dubai’s cultural landscape, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, inaugurated the Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA) on October 25, 2025. Developed by the Al-Futtaim Group and designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando, the museum stands on the waters of Dubai Creek as a new architectural and cultural landmark.

The Dubai Museum of Art represents the city’s ongoing effort to establish itself as a global center for creativity and innovation. Conceived under Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to make Dubai a leading destination for artists and creative industries, DUMA is intended to strengthen the city’s position in the international art community. Through its exhibitions, educational programs, and artist exchanges, the museum will serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among artists from around the world.

Architecturally, the museum reflects both heritage and modernity. Ando’s design—defined by clean geometry, light, and natural materials—draws inspiration from Dubai’s maritime history. The building’s curved shell, modeled after the form of a pearl, encases a circular exhibition hall symbolizing unity and discovery. A central oculus channels natural light through the space, recalling the shimmer of the sea that has long defined Dubai’s identity.

The five-storey structure includes adaptable galleries, a restaurant, and dedicated spaces for educational programs, discussions, and art fairs. Facilities such as a library, study rooms, and training programs are designed to support creative learning and the professional growth of emerging artists.

Tadao Ando, the 1995 Pritzker Architecture Prize laureate, is known for integrating architecture with its natural surroundings through minimalist concrete forms and controlled light. His notable works include the Chichu Art Museum in Japan, the Bourse de Commerce in Paris, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in Texas.

With the Dubai Museum of Art, the city adds a new dimension to its evolving identity—one rooted in cultural ambition and openness to global artistic exchange.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Alexander Agafiev Macambira
Alexander Agafiev Macambira is former tech contributing writer for Forbes Monaco.

Vladyslava Garkusha The Culture 27 October 2025

The Dubai Museum of Art: A New Chapter in the City’s Cultural Evolution

Expo City Dubai Hosts Global City Leaders for Asia Pacific Cities Summit

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Expo City Dubai opened its doors on Sunday to city leaders from across the world for the Asia Pacific Cities Summit and Mayors’ Forum.

Held at Al Wasl Plaza, the summit marks the first time the event has convened in the region during its 29-year history. The opening ceremony featured remarks from Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chief Executive Officer of the Expo City Dubai Authority; Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; and Adrian Schrinner, Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

Al Basti described Dubai as “a platform for global connection and a hub for innovation,” emphasizing Expo City’s role as a model for sustainable urban development. He said the summit offers city leaders a chance to exchange expertise and strengthen cooperation to enhance the livability and economic resilience of urban centers worldwide.

Speakers throughout the event underscored collaboration and shared learning as essential to addressing the challenges facing cities. Mayors and representatives from more than 300 cities, including over 150 mayors, gathered with the shared aim of improving the quality of life for residents through actionable partnerships and practical knowledge exchange.

The opening featured a light projection on the Al Wasl dome and a performance by the Firdaus Orchestra. The three-day event, organized by the Brisbane City Council and delivered by Expo City Dubai, runs from October 27 to 29 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 27 October 2025

Expo City Dubai Hosts Global City Leaders for Asia Pacific Cities Summit

Dubai to Host World’s Largest Tech and AI Event in 2026 Under New GITEX TechCation Banner

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has directed the development of GITEX TechCation 2026 into the world’s largest event focused on technology and artificial intelligence.

The event, set to take place from December 7 to 11, 2026, at Expo City Dubai, will be held under the supervision of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council. It will integrate technology, business, tourism, and culture into a citywide experience aimed at global participants.

As the first event of its kind, GITEX TechCation is designed to position Dubai as a year-end destination for innovation and investment, hosting leading technology firms, startups, and investors in an immersive, citywide format that extends beyond traditional exhibition halls.

The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of GITEX, has signed a strategic partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) to support and amplify the new format. The agreement enables GITEX to tap into Dubai’s hospitality and cultural networks to offer extended itineraries for international attendees and promote the emirate as a global destination for business and leisure.

DET’s CEO, Issam Kazim, said the new event aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aimed at positioning Dubai among the world’s top three cities by 2033. Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President at DWTC, described GITEX TechCation as a redefinition of global tech events, leveraging Dubai’s urban infrastructure and appeal.

The initiative follows sustained growth in Dubai’s international profile. The city ranked No.1 in Tripadvisor’s global Travelers’ Choice Awards for three consecutive years (2022–2024) and continues to lead in foreign direct investment, topping global rankings in Greenfield FDI projects for the first half of 2025.

The MICHELIN Guide 2025 features 119 Dubai restaurants, with 19 awarded stars, and two named among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, highlighting the city’s growing influence in lifestyle and culture - key pillars of GITEX TechCation’s design.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

Dubai to Host World’s Largest Tech and AI Event in 2026 Under New GITEX TechCation Banner

Dubai Accelerates AI Integration with New Government Initiatives

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, has approved a series of new artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives aimed at fast-tracking the emirate’s digital transformation and reinforcing its position as a global leader in technology-driven governance.

The initiatives were endorsed during the second 2025 meeting of the Higher Committee for Future Technology Development and the Digital Economy. Among the key projects approved were the AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform, the formation of the Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce, and the launch of the Unicorn 30 Programme to support high-growth startups.

The AI Infrastructure Empowerment Platform will provide Dubai government entities with access to a secure, integrated digital environment, enabling faster development and deployment of AI-powered services. The platform aims to boost operational efficiency, reduce costs through shared infrastructure, and strengthen cybersecurity across public systems.

The Dubai AI Acceleration Taskforce will bring together AI officers from 27 government entities to coordinate implementation strategies, streamline decision-making, and advance the adoption of AI tools across sectors. The taskforce was formed following consultations led by the Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence.

The Unicorn 30 Programme, spearheaded by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, seeks to scale 30 emerging companies into billion-dollar enterprises, positioning Dubai as a launchpad for global tech unicorns. The initiative includes 10 support mechanisms ranging from funding and regulation to international market expansion.

In addition, the committee reviewed plans for GITEX Global 2026, which will relocate to Expo City Dubai and expand its international footprint. The move reflects Dubai’s ambitions to host technology events on a larger and more sustainable scale.

Progress updates were also shared on earlier initiatives, including the Dubai PropTech Hub, launched in 2024, which aims to attract 200 companies and create over 3,000 jobs by 2030, and Dubai Founders HQ, a support platform for digital entrepreneurs.

The meeting was attended by senior government and technology leaders, including Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, and Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.

Vladyslava Garkusha News 21 October 2025

Dubai Accelerates AI Integration with New Government Initiatives

UAE Appoints Leadership for Inaugural Emirates Falcons International Cup

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and President of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, has appointed Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan as Chairman of the Emirates Falcons International Cup.

Sheikh Zayed, who also serves as Vice President of both the UAE Falcons Federation and the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing, will oversee the newly launched international championship, which aims to promote falcon racing globally under the UAE’s leadership.

Sheikh Ahmed also directed the formation of the championship’s Supreme Organising Committee, to be chaired by Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of both federations. The committee will be responsible for the planning and execution of the event, which will be held annually in different countries, starting with Kuwait in December 2025.

Four subcommittees - Referees, Appeals, Technical, and Registration, Protocol and Logistics - will report to the Supreme Committee to ensure the operational delivery of the event.

The initiative is held under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed. Organisers say the event reflects the UAE’s continued commitment to preserving and promoting traditional sports on a global stage.

The first edition will take place in Kuwait from December 4 to 7, featuring seven races in the Farkh category. The final race will see the top five falcons from each breed - Pure Jeer, Jeer Shaheen, Qarmoosha, and Jeer Taba - compete for total prize money of AED500,000.

Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office

Oksana Bozhko
Oksana Bozhko is a Contributor to Dubai Voice.