Page 21 - MOS PR REPORT FEBRUARY 2026

Press Release

The Council also discussed the UAE’s participation in the Winter Olympic Games, being hosted
by the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo from 6 to 22 February. The members
highlighted the significance of this historic first-time participation, serving as a clear reflection of
the remarkable progress achieved by the national sports ecosystem. It further contributes to
strengthening the national Olympic movement by driving participation in various Olympic
categories. In this edition of the Olympics, the UAE is being represented by athletes Alexander

Astridge and Piera Hudson, competing in alpine skiing events.

During the meeting, H.E. Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi reaffirmed the commitment of the

Ministry and the NOC to steadfastly supporting athletes and relevant federations, enabling them
to represent the UAE at international sports platforms and Olympic forums. He also wished the
participating athletes’ success, hoping for outcomes that reflect the UAE’s thriving sports
ecosystem and add to its impressive record of achievements.

H.E. emphasized the Council’s role as an effective platform for member entities to exchange
insights and plans. He further stated that by enhancing coordination between various sports
organisations and partners throughout the UAE, the Council seeks to facilitate the transition from
fragmented work within the sports sector to an integrated national ecosystem.

Also, Al Falasi stated: “To ensure that all efforts are unified and integrated, and to leverage the
skills of each emirate, we are focusing on exploring and coordinating sporting agendas across the

UAE. We are committed to contributing towards achieving the goals of the 2026 ‘Year of Family,’
and constantly supporting community initiatives that foster a culture of sports among society and
ensure seamless access to sports for all family members across the UAE.”

In turn, H.E. Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Sports,
highlighted the importance of discussing the regulations governing the formation of election
committees and electoral appeals committees, noting that this reflects the commitment of those
responsible for the sports system to uphold the principles of good governance, enhance

transparency, and ensure equal opportunities within the institutional sports framework in the UAE.

Further, H.E. affirmed that unifying the regulatory frameworks and adhering to the approved laws

and legislations, in full compliance with the Sports Law in the UAE and its executive regulations,
has a significant impact on improving performance efficiency and achieving institutional
excellence across all sports entities, thereby contributing to driving comprehensive development
in the national sports sector.