Dubai police to organise soccer tournament

Dubai police will launch their Sports is Protection programme starting August 1, a police official said.

This programme's goals include helping national youth make good use of their summer vacation, protecting them from misbehaving, strengthening the relationship between police and community and raising safety and security awareness.

Major Dr Jasim K. Mirza, Director, Media and Cultural Board of the programme, said the programme is aimed at UAE national males between the ages of 15 and 20.

He said it includes hosting a six-a-side soccer tournament in Dubai Municipality's neighbourhood playgrounds and sheltered sports stadiums of the Ministry of Education.

Four playgrounds are chosen in Dubai, two in Deira and two in Bur Dubai to conduct these matches, besides some playgrounds in Hatta.

Final matches will be held at Dubai Police Officers Club during the third week of August. The programme ends on August 21.

More than 30 teams representing Dubai neighbourhoods are expected to participate in this tournament.

"This programme is being held for the second year in a row. It is being supervised by the Sports Affairs Department at Community Services of Dubai Police," said Major Mirza.

In addition to the matches, the programme will organise lectures to improve sports awareness.

According to Dubai Police, some studies showed that youth who engage in sports and physical activities are less driven toward committing crimes.

Moreover, sports boost memory and understanding skills and encourage positive ways of thinking, not to mention the numerous health benefits of sports.

Details of the programme can be obtained on 04-3151276.