Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, ADSC, has said that the UAE enjoys a prominent position among the international sporting community, due to the support of its wise leadership, which is reflected in its hosting of several international sports championships on an annual basis, such as the Club World Cup UAE 2017, the 2019 Asian Cup and the 2019 Special Olympics.

In an interview with the Emirates News Agency, WAM, Al Awani explained that the progress of sports in the UAE, and Abu Dhabi in particular, has witnessed significant developments in recent decades, as the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan had prioritised sports. This legacy was followed by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

He affirmed that the UAE will present to the world a unique model of supporting 'people of determination', by hosting the Special Olympics 2019, adding that women’s sports have also received considerable attention from the wise leadership and sporting officials, leading to many regional and international successes. The ADSC General Secretary referred to the establishment of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy while adding that the council has a significant role in supporting female sporting talents.

Al Awani went on to say that the Abu Dhabi Sports Council has already begun preparations for the Year of Zayed 2018, which will include several initiatives that aim to promote the sporting legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed.

On hosting the Club World Cup in December, Al Awani said that hosting the 2017 edition of this championship, as well as the 2018 games, reflects the world’s confidence in the UAE.

"Over 75 percent of tickets for the Club World Cup have been sold, and the emirate is expected to receive large numbers of tourists and visitors during the championship, which will promote local sports tourism," he concluded.