Tag Archives: Sports & Tourism

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council, the Sharjah World Championship Week begins tomorrow (Friday) in the emirate’s picturesque Khalid Lagoon. The finals of the world’s premier single-seater powerboat racing event will see 19 drivers competing for top spots to claim the “UIM F1H2O” World Championship title at the coveted Sharjah Grand Prix. In a press conference held today (Thursday), the event’s host, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) unveiled the exciting details of the Sharjah leg of the international championship, which is being organised by the authority. The press conference was held in the presence of HE Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA; Humaid Khalfan Al Kindi, a Board Member of Sharjah International Marine Sports Club; Nicolo Di San Germano, UIM F1 H2O promoter; racers; and media representatives. The final rounds of the Sharjah Grand Prix, set to take place Saturday and Sunday (December 7 – 8), will witness an exhilarating contest between elite world-class drivers. The UIM F1H2O World Championship includes a series of international races for single-seater powerboats. From the United Arab Emirates, several teams are competing for the championship title this year, including the Sharjah Team from the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, which features Canadian Rusty Wyatt, ranked second, and Finnish driver Filip Roms. The Abu Dhabi Team is also participating with racers Rashed Al Qemzi and Thani Al Qamzi from the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club. Additionally, the Victory Team from the Dubai International Marine Club is competing with racers Ahmad Al Fahim and Erik Stark.   H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of …

Genesis announced the renewal of its partnership with the third edition of the Saudi Games 2024. This reinforces its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s vibrant sports culture. The official signing ceremony was held at Matal Al-Bujairi in Diriyah to announce the renewal of cooperation between the brand and the organizing committee of the Saudi Games, in order to achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 in supporting sports excellence and building a vital and stimulating sports sector for youth. Following the impressive success of the Genesis sponsorship of last year’s Saudi Games, this year it will also play a key role in this larger sporting event, which will take place from 3 October  to 17 October 2024, and will witness a distinctive presence for Genesis, providing a fleet of 250 luxury cars, in order to support the operational logistics of the event and ensure the smooth movement of participants, officials and VIPs between the host facilities. This is the largest multi-sport event held in Saudi Arabia, in which more than 9,000 athletes will compete in 52 different sports, and this partnership underscores the brand’s commitment to contribute with the Saudi Games in supporting the sports movement in the Kingdom. This edition is the largest national sporting event in Saudi Arabia, and as such, it will contribute to uncovering the talents of the elite athletes in Saudi Arabia in a variety of sports. It is expected to bring together thousands of participants from different regions, to compete with high sportsmanship and hearts eager to achieve excellence. Commenting on the partnership, Omar Al-Zubaidi, CEO of Genesis Middle East and Africa, said: “We are honored to continue our collaboration with the Saudi Games, …

Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority Advisor Turki Alalshikh has announced the much-anticipated fight at the fifth edition of Riyadh Season 2024 opening ceremony. This time, the season is to kick off with sports events. Boxing fans from around the world are eagerly awaiting the major event titled “IV Crown Showdown,” which will take place in Riyadh on 12 October . This event will serve as the launching point for a season filled with activities and entertainment that will put Riyadh at the forefront of the global event scene. The IV Crown Showdown will be a special occasion for boxing fans. It will feature a clash between two light heavyweight titans: Russia’s Artur Beterbiev, known for his overwhelming power and a record filled with knockout victories, and his fellow Russian Dmitry Bivol, regarded as one of the most tactical and intelligent boxers in this weight class. This confrontation is not just a title fight; it is a battle to prove supremacy in the light heavyweight division at the global level. In addition to this main event, the audience will witness a series of thrilling matches featuring top international champions across various weight classes. US Shakur Stevenson will face Welshman Joe Cordina in the super featherweight category. In the middleweight division, British fighter Chris Eubank Jr., who has 18 knockouts, will challenge Polish boxer Kamil Szeremeta in what promises to be an exciting round. In the heavyweight category, the audience will enjoy a British showdown between Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke, both aiming to prove their worth in the Riyadh ring. In the cruiserweight division, Australian Jai Opetaia, who previously won by knockout in the “Ring of Fire” clash last December, …

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group) launched the “Oman Downwinder” initiative as part of its ongoing efforts to achieve tourism diversification and its commitment to enhancing the adventure and experiences sector. This year’s races will start from the beaches of Duqm in Al Wusta Governorate, pass along the Omani coasts to the north, and conclude at Ras Al Jinz Reserve in South Sharqiyah Governorate. The races featured the participation of twelve professional athletes from both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman. The launch ceremony was held at the W Muscat Hotel, and attended by Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, Dr. Khamis Salem Al Jabri, CEO of Oman Sail, and several officials from various entities. In this context, Dr. Hashil Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of OMRAN Group, stated: “The Sultanate of Oman is endowed with abundant and diverse natural assets, making it a leading destination for offering unique tourism products and experiences. Organizing these races reflects our belief in the pivotal role that various sports events play in promoting and highlighting our tourism potential to the world, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and establishing Oman’s position on the international tourism map.” Dr. Hashil highlighted that organizing these races aligns with the Group’s strategic directions aimed at achieving tourism diversification and enhancing the adventure and experiences sector by leveraging unique and diverse natural potentials. It also embodies the Group’s commitment to creating sustainable and eco-friendly experiences for adventure enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, this event represents a significant opportunity to enhance Oman’s position as a prominent global destination for hosting sports events and adventure activities. Marcelo Antunes Ferreira, CEO of Sea and Beach …

The Board of Directors of NEOM has announced Gidori – an exclusive private golf community which hosts luxury hospitality, premium residences, and a range of sports and leisure amenities that offer an unmatched living experience. Located along the enchanting Gulf of Aqaba coastline, Gidori effortlessly combines world-class golf and active leisure, encapsulated in an ultra-modern community for guests and residents. The progressive architectural centerpiece is a beach-front complex with a spectacular cantilevered structure. Rising from the coastal landscape, it will house 190 luxury sea-view apartments alongside a range of dining experiences, signature retail stores and garden spaces. Gidori’s 18-hole championship golf course sweeps inland through low hills and rocky outcrops, challenging golfers at all levels and featuring innovative design, exquisite coastal views and advanced technology. The elegant clubhouse will provide sophisticated hospitality for players, while the golf academy will offer expert advice and coaching and will service the traditional game as well as the next generation of e-sports. Placed along the golf course is a limited series of 200 individually designed and highly desirable private villas and homes. Visitors to Gidori can also stay in the 80-room boutique luxury hotel, which provides a variety of uniquely designed rooms and distinctive contemporary suites. The hotel includes restaurants and lounges, a well-being spa, a gym, multiple swimming pools and an exclusive theatre for curated entertainment. Gidori’s surroundings are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, on and off-road cycling, and scenic walks. The beach club will offer relaxed hospitality and entertainment, with an extensive selection of water sports for all ages and experiences. Come nightfall, observation platforms will provide unrivaled viewing opportunities of the night skies Aligned with NEOM’s commitment to conservation and …

PIF and ATP announce multi-year strategic partnership to accelerate the growth of global tennis. This new partnership focuses on enhancing global tennis and its long-term future, elevating youth and unlocking opportunities for tennis’ next generation. PIF to serve as the official naming partner of the ATP Rankings. Partnership incorporates PIF’s four sponsorship pillars: inclusivity, sustainability, youth and technology. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) and ATP today unveiled a new multi-year strategic partnership, marking a significant shared commitment to enhancing global tennis for players, fans, tournament organizers and stakeholders at all levels of the sport. The major partnership will see PIF become the official naming partner of the ATP Rankings, celebrating players’ journeys and progress across the season and championing excellence as the Year-End No. 1, presented by PIF, is crowned at the Nitto ATP Finals which will take place in Turin, Italy until 2025. PIF will partner with ATP Tour events in Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, Beijing and the Nitto ATP Finals, in addition to the Next Gen ATP Finals, hosted in Jeddah until 2027. Following the launch of ATP’s Baseline program earlier this year, PIF has further committed to develop and unlock new opportunities for young players and player pathway initiatives, providing a significant boost to the game’s next generation of stars. The ATP partnership forms part of PIF’s broader sponsorship platform, investing in people, projects and partnerships with an emphasis on the brand’s four pillars: inclusivity, sustainability, youth and technology. Together, PIF and ATP will also collaborate to elevate the long-term future of tennis. PIF will actively contribute to ATP’s OneVision Strategic Plan which focuses on driving unity, enhancing fan experiences and leveraging scalable growth opportunities across the …

In order to strengthen its position as an emirate dedicated to promote sports tourism, the Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD) announced that it will be hosting the 57th International Fitness and Bodybuilding – IFBB ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS in 2026, a move aimed at fortifying its standing as a premier sports tourism destination. The announcement was made today at a press conference held at the Ajman Police Sports and Shooting Club. His Highness Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Department of Tourism Development (ADTD), presided over the press conference alongside key figures such as His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Saif al-Sharqi, President of the UAE Federation for Body Building and Physical Strength, Dr. Rafael Santoga, President of the International Federation of Bodybuilding, and Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim, President of the Arab and African Bodybuilding Federation, among others. The Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship, organized and sponsored by the Ajman Department of Tourism Development, will serve as a unique opportunity for Ajman to showcase its diversity and appeal as a sports tourism hub. The tournament is scheduled to take place in May 2026, further solidifying Ajman’s reputation as a host of prominent international sporting events. In addition to the main competition, the event will feature side activities that offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture and heritage of Ajman. These include folk arts, traditional cuisine, and artistic performances, enriching the overall visitor experience. Ajman also plans to enhance its tourism services in preparation for the 2026 Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship. A range of offerings, from accommodation facilities to shopping and entertainment experiences, will be tailored to meet the expectations of guests. Through these …

As the AFC Asian Cup 2023 enters the semi-finals stage, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Qatar has welcomed around 2.5 million football fans and visitors from around the world, with more than 41,000 visitors using the tram, and an average of 14,000 visitors making their way to Msheireb Galleria daily. Dr Hafiz Ali Abdullah, Senior Director of Corporate Communications said: “We are excited to be the go-to destination for visitors and residents during the AFC Asian Cup 2023. Msheireb Downtown Doha continues to proudly showcase Qatari culture with thrilling activations and unique design features.” Throughout the first half of the tournament, Msheireb Downtown Doha was filled with exhilarating activities like the Asian Sikka featuring booths from all 24 participating countries, Football Bowling, Football Golf Target, and Subsoccer games, match screenings at Baraha Msheireb, and finally the open-air ‘Baraha Musical Concert’ in collaboration with the renowned Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Msheireb Downtown Doha housed the Media Centre for the entire tournament with over 2,000 media representatives. Msheireb Downtown Doha, located in close proximity to the buzzing Souq Waqif, also offers visitors a unique cultural experience through the city’s interactive Msheireb Museums, various choices of fine dining and international cuisines, as well as stores and children’s edutainment at the four-story Msheireb Galleria.

Over 200 renowned international athletes, including 23 celebrated football legends, are participating in the inaugural ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’, which kicked off on Wednesday, 10th January and will last till Saturday, 13th January, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Executive Council Organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), the groundbreaking event, which features elite international retired football stars and legends from 23 countries, aims to elevate the emirate’s tourism landscape and boost its global tourism status by showcasing its attractions and cultural landmarks to a worldwide audience. The detailed program of ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’ was unveiled during a press conference organised by the SCTDA on Wednesday, in the presence of HE Khaled Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, Nabil Ashour, Director of the Support Services Department at Sharjah Sports Council, and Steve Crane, Executive Director of Pro FootGolf Tours Joining the press conference also were Ali Abdullah Arif, CEO of World Padel Academy; Abdelrahman Bin Taliah, Director of Executive Affairs at Air Arabia; Massimiliano Suglia, Director General of the International Football Development Association (IFDA); Ukrainian football star Andriy Shevchenko; and Ziad Al Sharabi, General Manager of Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club. The inaugural ‘Sharjah’s Week of the Stars’ will commence this evening with the ‘Legends Padel Tour’ featuring 16 international football stars and legends who will compete for the tournament held at the World Padel Academy in Sharjah. The premier event will continue on Thursday with an exclusive tour of Sharjah’s landmarks to offer football stars insights into the emirate’s dynamic development landscape, with a …

Sharjah tourism and development authority shared that the emirate of Sharjah has witnessed growth in terms of visitors due to its great developments, infrastructure and most importantly sports tourism. Speaking at the press conference Chairman Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Authority HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa shared that this week of starts in Sharjah will be an opportunity to showcase its rich offerings not only as a family tourisistic destination but also as a sporting and adventure tourism hub. This week will feature friendly football matches to paddle tennis matches to develop sports tourism. 24 football legends will be a key highlight during this week as they will expose the rich heritage and sporting tourism infrastructure of Sharjah to both local and international travellers. There will be 3 different events – paddle tennis, football and footgolf and stars week until the end of this week. Last year there were over 120 players from 20 countries giving Sharjah exposure at the first footgolf tournament.