Today, the swimming competitions at the Dubai International Water Games 2026 kick off, held at the Hamdan Sports Complex. A record-breaking 1,670 swimmers and swimmers from over 100 nationalities are participating, representing more than 80 clubs and academies from around the world, making this one of the largest editions in the tournament's history. The competitions will take place from April 2nd to 5th, in cooperation with the Dubai Sports Council, amidst expectations of intense competitions that reflect the tournament's advanced level on the global stage. Abdullah Al Wahabi, President of the UAE Water Sports Federation, confirmed that the record numbers achieved by the tournament reflect the status it has reached, noting that the event has become a global platform for creating champions and discovering talents. Al Wahabi told "Al Ittihad": "The great interest in participating reflects the increasing confidence in the UAE's organizational capabilities and confirms the global status the tournament has achieved." He added: "These numbers are not just figures, but evidence that the tournament has become a real global platform within a professional organizational environment and advanced infrastructure." He continued: "The tournament's accreditation by World Aquatics gives its results official status and enhances its importance as one of the qualifying stops for major tournaments, led by the Youth Olympics – Dakar 2026." He also pointed out that the 2026 edition sees the launch of the records program for the first time, with official timings recorded in the 50m and 100m races, in addition to offering cash prizes and accredited certificates to motivate swimmers to achieve the best results. He concluded: "We strive to present an exceptional edition that reflects the UAE's leadership in hosting major sporting events and meets the expectations of participants from all over the world."
