Six Arab teams launch rowing’s first chapter at AWST 2026

February 08, 2026 / 8:31 PM

Sharjah 24: Six teams from across the Arab world will make waves on Monday as rowing debuts at the Arab Women Sports Tournament (AWST 2026), with Al Hamriyah Beach in Sharjah hosting the competitions. The UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia will compete in double sculls races opening on Monday, followed by the single sculls finals on Tuesday.

A milestone for women’s marine sports

Rowing’s inclusion at AWST 2026 marks a significant step for women’s marine sports in the Arab world, reflecting the sport’s growing regional reach.

UAE trio eye podium finish

At the Sharjah Women’s Sports Club camp, confidence is high. Head coach Sara Baya Janan said the team is targeting more than participation: “We are here to leave a lasting Emirati mark. Our squad features some of the UAE’s most experienced rowers, including Shamsa Al Sharyani, Fatima Khalaf Al Suwaidi, and Shamma Al Shamsi. They are fully prepared to represent their country at a tournament that has become a platform for developing elite talent.”

Egypt’s Maadi set for strong challenge

The Egyptian side, Maadi Sporting & Yacht Club, arrives in Sharjah with clear medal ambitions. Head coach Mostafa Al Attar said his team is ready to compete at the highest level: “Our squad is led by Dahab Moustafa, Mariam Abouelwafa, and Salma Badour, who are eager to compete and return with medals that reflect Egypt’s standing in rowing.”

Kuwait confident ahead of races

Kuwait Sea Sport Club head coach Mohammed Al Sabti confirmed full readiness: “Our line-up includes Jenan Khaleefoh, Maryam Alajmi, and Tamara Buhamad. AWST organisational and logistical support has been outstanding, and competition in both singles and doubles is expected to be highly competitive.”

Moroccan doubles focus

Moroccan coach Youssef Mossadeq of Nautical Club Rabat Beach said his team will rely on the chemistry between Zainab Jabbour and Dahab Mostafa as they adapt to conditions in rowing’s AWST debut.

Technical meeting

The technical meeting was held on Sunday at Sharjah Women’s Sports, where regulations aligned with World Rowing rules were confirmed to ensure fair and safe competition.

Organised by Sharjah Women’s Sports, AWST 2026 runs until February 12 and brings together 65 teams from 16 Arab countries competing across nine individual and team sports.