Page 141 - MOS PR REPORT - OCT 2025

10/7/25, 9:40 AM Ministry of Sports establishes UAE Obstacle Sports Federation under chairmanship of H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb - Middle…
His Excellency also reaffirmed the Ministry of Sports’ commitment to supporting the
Federation, so that it can foster an advanced organisational and technical ecosystem that
identifies, develops, and nurtures talent, while hosting international championships to
enhance the UAE’s pioneering stature in the global sports domain. H.E. Dr Al Falasi added
that the initial steps to promote this unique sports category are already underway, with its
inclusion in upcoming editions of school and university games. This underscores the
importance of investing in a new generation of athletes capable of competing and excelling
in a wide range of sports.

H.E. Abdulrahman Abu Al Shawareb, President of the UAE Obstacle Sports Federation, on
behalf of the Federation’s Board of Directors, extended his sincere gratitude to the Ministry
of Sports and H.E. Dr Al Falasi, stating: “We are deeply honoured by the trust placed in us
to lead the Federation following its official establishment. We look forward to building a
comprehensive institutional framework that promotes obstacle sports across all segments of
Emirati society, enhancing their physical fitness and nurturing talents who can represent the
UAE at international platforms.”

His Excellency also said that the Federation will work closely with the Ministry of Sports and
relevant entities to organise local, regional, and international tournaments in line with global
standards, supported by the sport’s rapid growth.

His Excellency added: “Moving forward, we will focus on strengthening cooperation with
regional federations and the The Fédération Internationale de Sports d’Obstacles (FISO).
This is to foster strategic partnerships and exchange expertise, supporting the UAE’s
broader sports development goals.”

Across the UAE, this sports category has seen remarkable growth, with 52 registered events
held nationwide last year. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 9,000 citizens and
residents actively practise this sport, which led to the decision of creating a national
federation to oversee its development.

Notably, Dubai hosted the World Obstacle Championship in December 2024, organised by
Dubai Police at Dubai Police Officer’s Club and Dubai Design District (D3). The event
garnered widespread public interest, participation, and international acclaim due to its
meticulous organisation and immense competition.

Obstacle races feature natural or artificial barriers that athletes must overcome in the
shortest possible time. Competitions are held across male, female, and mixed ca

https://mid-east.info/ministry-of-sports-establishes-uae-obstacle-sports-federation-under-chairmanship-of-h-e-abdulrahman-abu-al-shawareb/ 2/2