Mansoor bin Mohammed Launches Asian Youth Paralympic Games 2025 in Dubai
Inauguration of the Asian Youth Paralympic Games
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, officially inaugurated the Asian Youth Paralympic Games 2025 in Dubai. This largest edition of the Games features 1,500 athletes from 35 countries competing across 11 sports. The Games will take place from December 10 to 13 at eight premier venues in Dubai, further establishing the city as a global hub for inclusivity and excellence in Paralympic sports.
Honoring Excellence in Sports
At the opening ceremony, Sheikh Mansoor honored Her Excellency Shakhnoza Shavkatovna Mirziyoyeva, First Deputy Director of the National Agency for Social Protection under the President of Uzbekistan and First Deputy Chairperson of the National Paralympic Committee of Uzbekistan. She was recognized for her contributions to supporting sports for individuals with disabilities, receiving accolades for her role in advancing youth initiatives throughout Asia.
Attendees and Dignitaries
The opening ceremony was held at the Dubai Club for People of Determination and was attended by prominent officials including His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, and Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai. Dato Sri Hajjah Fatimah Abdullah, Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development for Sarawak, Malaysia, was also present, alongside several other distinguished guests, including international sports federation leaders.
Global Participation and Significance
Among the officials present were His Excellency Majid Al Usaimi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, and various representatives from competing nations. The opening ceremony welcomed ambassadors, heads of local sports federations, and representatives from both regional and international media, showcasing a broad commitment to the inclusion of athletes with disabilities.
Highlights of the Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony featured a vibrant parade of participating athletes carrying their national flags, followed by a promotional video celebrating the spirit and determination of the athletes. Competitive events will include athletics, swimming, boccia, powerlifting, table tennis, archery, goalball, badminton, wheelchair basketball, arm wrestling, and taekwondo. Notably, the integration of artificial intelligence in event operations symbolizes a modern approach to organizing these Games.
Organizational Excellence and Future Aspirations
His Excellency Thani Jumaa Al-Riqad, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Mansoor for his ongoing support. He emphasized the exceptional talent of young athletes, highlighting Dubai’s long history of hosting top-tier events and reaffirming the city’s commitment to being a leading center for sports for people of determination.
His Excellency Majid Al-Otaibi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, praised the organizational efforts and the use of artificial intelligence during the Games, underscoring this year’s edition as the most significant in the history of the Asian Youth Paralympic Games.
Cultural Performances and Athletes’ Pledge
The event also featured the anthem of the Asian Paralympic Committee, along with the official oath taken by athlete representative Mohammed Khalid Taleb and referee Tariq Al Ali, affirming commitment to integrity and respect. The cultural showcase included performances by Emirati artist Eyadah Al Menhali, which celebrated the resilience and achievements of the participating athletes.
An Inspiring Future for Paralympic Athletes
The evening concluded by acknowledging all participants and attendees, signaling the start of an exciting journey for young Asian Paralympic athletes in Dubai. With a focus on ambition and excellence, the Games aim to serve as a crucial platform for nurturing the next generation of Paralympic talent in the region.
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