During the meeting, Sheikh Hazza was briefed on the council’s vision and direction for developing the region’s sports sector, including plans to host championships and competitions, to broaden sports participation across different segments of the community, and on ongoing efforts to support heritage sports, further strengthening Al Ain Region as a leading sports destination.

The delegation also presented a number of upcoming sporting events in Al Ain Region, including running races, half-marathons and community sports events, as well as the region’s hosting of stages of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and a round of the Abu Dhabi Baja Challenge.

His Highness Sheikh Hazza received an overview of Abu Dhabi Falconers’ Club’s activities and programmes, as well as ongoing efforts to support and preserve falconry as an integral part of Emirati heritage. His Highness was also briefed on the Arabian Saluki Championship programme and its role in preserving and raising awareness of this cultural heritage and in passing it on to future generations.

Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the importance of continuing to develop the sports ecosystem in the Al Ain Region, in line with the directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to make sport a driver of community development, enhance quality of life and encourage community members to adopt healthy lifestyles.

His Highness Sheikh Hazza also highlighted the importance of expanding community sporting events to support the objectives of the Year of Family, encouraging family members to participate in a wide range of activities. His Highness also underscored the role of heritage sports in connecting present generations with their national heritage and embedding it in the fabric of society.

The meeting was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Undersecretary of the Ruler’s Representative Court in the 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 a number of officials.