Sport Country March 09, 2025

The Attraction of Shooting Sports in the UAE

Shooting sports enjoys a large popularity in the UAE, reflecting cultural heritage and enhancing the spirit of competition. The state aims to develop shooting through sustainable programs.


The Attraction of Shooting Sports in the UAE

Diverse sports activity in the United Arab Emirates includes popular types of archery. The development of this discipline in the country carries important cultural significance and is connected with its national heritage. In recent years, the government has actively supported programs and initiatives aimed at preserving traditions in archery and passing them on through generations.

Measures, supported by the government, are aimed at developing talent in this field and increasing the participation of shooters from the country in international competitions. Achievements of the Emirati teams in regional, Arab, and world tournaments maintain the leading position of the country in this sport.

Notably, the historical success for the UAE in archery came after winning the gold medal, achieved by Sheikh Ahmed bin Hasher Al Maktoum at the Olympics in Sydney in 2004. In recent years, participants from the country have achieved high results in world competitions in archery using arrows, pistols, and shooting at targets.

The battle for medals in international competitions remains behind the backdrop of the United Arab Emirates, including among shooters with limited opportunities. Athletes such as Abdallah Al Aryani, world champions, show the practical support of their participation and the presented government opportunities for promoting their skills.

The female presence in archery tournaments is also becoming increasingly noticeable, reflecting the trend of women's empowerment through competitions and sports achievements. Commenting on the situation, former champion Saif bin Fatis called for support of programs for the search for sports talent and the development of their opportunities for achieving international success.

Thus, archery continues to remain an important and respected sport in the United Arab Emirates, where notable achievements of athletes, including those with limited opportunities, testify to the continual support of the government and the country's commitment to strengthening its presence in the global sports arena.