AWST 2026 set to unite Arab women athletes in Sharjah

December 18, 2025 / 3:48 PM

Sharjah24: Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Sharjah Family and Community Council, the 8th Arab Women Sports Tournament (AWST) will run from 2 to 12 February 2026. The tournament is organised by the Sharjah Women Sports Foundation, an affiliate of the Sharjah Family and Community Council, and will bring together elite female athletes and clubs from across the Arab world.

As part of preparations overseen by the Union of Arab National Olympic Committees (UANOC) and endorsed by the League of Arab States, the Supreme Organising Committee announced the addition of taekwondo (G1 classification, accredited by World Taekwondo) and beach rowing for the first time. The tournament programme also includes volleyball, fencing, athletics, shooting, archery, table tennis, and basketball, expanding competitive diversity and strengthening cultural and sporting ties among Arab women athletes.

Leading platform for women’s empowerment

Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the AWST Higher Organising Committee, said the tournament has become a leading model for empowering Arab women in sport, enhancing professionalism, fair competition, and international visibility. He noted that the tournament reflects an integrated strategic vision supported by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher.

Venues inspected and readiness confirmed

A UANOC delegation led by H.E. Sheikha Hayat Al Khalifa, Chair of UANOC, conducted an inspection tour to review venues and facilities across Sharjah. Officials confirmed full readiness and support from participating clubs, reinforcing confidence in the emirate’s organisational, technical, and logistical capabilities.