DUBAI The summer is here but the sports enthusiasts have hardly anything to worry. Shift your focus indoors and enjoy your favourite sport as the Dubai Sports World (DSW) opens its door for the third successive year.
Spread over 28,000 square metres of space in the Shaikh Saeed Halls at the Trade Centre Arena, Dubai World Trade Centre, DSW has a host of sports activities with another three being added to the list this year (squash, cycling and badminton).
“During our meetings we realised that obesity and diabetes is on the rise and that’s not what Dubai would want to be associated with. We realised that by hosting events during summers in these halls we could give it back to the community, so we set up some activities in the first year and then we realised how big the demand is,” said Issam Kazim, Director for Events and Sponsorship.
“We are trying to get kids out of malls and encourage them to do something more active and constructive and that has evolved over the years,” he added.
The facility will be open till August 21 from 8am to midnight, and until 3am during Ramadan and will also have a range of training camps under the guidance of skilled coaches and trainers. Ahmad Al Sharif, Secretary General, Dubai Sports Council said: “Dubai Sports World is one of the highlights of the sporting calendar in the UAE. Each year attendance increases, demonstrating a keen willingness amongst residents and tourists to adopt a healthier lifestyle.”
ActiveUAE, who offer coaching in various sports including swimming and tennis across Dubai, have set up their camps in the facility.
“It’s a great facility. Such a multi-disciplinary area in Dubai in a great location, what more can we ask for,” said Carole Worrall, Marketing and Promotions, Active Sports Academy.
“We got tennis coaching and holiday camps for all ages. The schools are still on and it’s been a gentle start, but from next week we hope to have big numbers after the schools close,” she added.
Sam Whittam, General Manager of Adventure HQ who have set up the BMX park said: “We are giving youngsters an opportunity to enjoy the adventure sports. The response has been good so far and it’s an individual sport, so we are hoping to see an increase in numbers. It challenges them and I think they love doing something they have never done before.”
Tennis360 have introduced the cardio tennis and Sergio Gaoni, senior coach, said that this was a great opportunity for youngsters to get fitter and enjoy tennis at a faster pace.
“Its lot faster and very active and a great opportunity for kids to stay fit,” he said.
There is also an opportunity for football lovers to watch international professional stars who will be part of the Dubai Indoor Football Championship to be held from July 2 – 6.
