UAE Sailing Federation presents development initiatives in Dublin

November 09, 2025 / 9:15 PM

Sharjah 24: During its participation in the 2025 World Sailing Federation meetings, held in Dublin, Ireland, from November 2nd to 8th, the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation proposed a series of initiatives aimed at advancing the sport globally. These included launching diverse training programs to support young athletes, providing Olympic equipment assistance to developing nations in cooperation with the World Sailing Federation, establishing electronic platforms for trading boats between continents, and updating race management systems to be integrated into the Federation’s online academy.

Strengthening the UAE’s global presence

The UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation concluded its participation in the 2025 meetings, represented at the General Assembly and technical sessions by H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Al Obaidli, Secretary-General of the Federation, and Captain Zuhair Al Labat, Technical Director of the National Team.

The Federation’s participation served as a key platform for strengthening the UAE’s role in international decision-making within the sport. The UAE represented the Middle East and West Asia group at the International Sailing Federation’s Executive Council meeting, chaired by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation.

A package of development proposals

As Chairman of the Asian Development Committee, Al Obaidli presented a package of proposals to the International Sailing Federation’s General Assembly as part of the Development Committee’s report. His recommendations included launching new training programs for emerging athletes, providing Olympic equipment support to developing nations, creating an international digital platform for boat trading, and updating race management systems linked to the Federation’s online academy.

The UAE delegation also supported several resolutions and voted in favor of electing two women as Vice Presidents, reinforcing women’s leadership in international sports governance.

Hosting future championships and building partnerships

The UAE delegation discussed potential cooperation projects with several national federations, including joint training camps, hosting future championships, conducting workshops and training programs, and developing strategic partnerships with Qatar, China, Japan, Singapore, Morocco, Turkey, and Italy.

Recognising the UAE’s role in global development

Quan Hailey, President of the International Sailing Federation, praised the UAE’s pivotal role in supporting development programs and strengthening cooperation between Middle Eastern and Asian federations — efforts that continue to elevate the sport’s global standards and expand its player base.