Supported by the Dubai Sports Council, this event brought together top-tier talents from over 30 countries. The Gymnastika Solo Cup, one of the world's leading gymnastics tournaments, hosted over 790 international athletes, including Olympic medalists and world champions like Liubou Charkashyna, Eva Brezalieva, Carol Michelotti, Elisa Maria Comignani, and Amalia Lică, at the Al Nasr Sports Complex from October 22–27.
The tournament marked the first major championship held since the formation of the UAE Gymnastics Federation, launched with the support of the Sports for All Federation. The event resulted in 40 podium finishes, including 11 gold medals won by young gymnasts from local UAE clubs, highlighting the nation's commitment to youth and women's sports. This sector is projected to see double-digit growth in women's sports revenues over the next three to five years.
«In Dubai, rhythmic gymnastics grew from one club to roughly 60 in five years. It is held twice a year in Dubai and powered by GYMNASTIKA RG CLUB together with its title partner SOLO. The Gymnastika Solo Cup was founded in 2022 and is held twice a year in Dubai. With the motto 'Where sport becomes art, Where dreams become history,' this year’s edition emphasises gymnastics as a celebration of inspiration, respect, and cultural unity that goes beyond the medal table,» said Anastasiya Zakreuskaya, Founder & CEO of Gymnastika UAE, a FIG-certified coach and judge.
The tournament's symbol, Zayina – the Soul of the Desert and Keeper of Dreams – paid tribute to the UAE's transformative vision, reminding that even in the desert, every dream can blossom into greatness.
«The establishment of the UAE Gymnastics Federation is a proud moment for us. This tournament showcased our commitment to fostering inclusive, community-focused sporting excellence,» commented Hessa Al Kous, Head of Women in Sports at the Dubai Sports Council.
According to PwC’s Global Sports Survey, the Middle East now leads 24% of global sports investments, increasing its global influence and welcoming top talent from around the world. The first international championship in Dubai followed the opening of the UAE Gymnastics Federation. Now, by hosting world-class tournaments, the focus is on building confidence and character in the next generation of female athletes. The youngest local winner is just 4 years old, demonstrating the rise of future champions.
The event was supported by the Dubai Sports Council and the Sports for All Federation, whose representatives attended key ceremonies. The 2024 edition attracted 750 athletes and 6,000 spectators, cementing its status as a major event on the international rhythmic gymnastics calendar. This aligns with Dubai's sports industry, which contributes around $2.5 billion annually to the economy, and the national vision to empower youth, champion women in sport, and offer world-class hospitality to athletes and fans globally.
