Special Olympics UAE, in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, hosted the Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics competitions of UAE Games 2026 at Wellfit Gymnastics on 3 June.
The event marked the opening gymnastics competitions of UAE Games 2026 and formed part of the wider national platform dedicated to empowering People of Determination through sport.
More than 1,000 athletes, unified partners, coaches, and technical teams are participating across the broader Games programme this year.
Wellfit Gymnastics welcomes athletes and families
As the official venue partner for the gymnastics competitions, Wellfit Gymnastics welcomed athletes, families, and members of the wider community for an afternoon celebrating inclusion, participation, and the unifying power of sport.
The competition took place from 3:00pm to 7:30pm at Wellfit Gymnastics, located in Circle Mall, Jumeirah Village Circle. VIP guests attended from 5:00pm onwards, including representatives from Dubai Sports Council and Special Olympics UAE.
Year-round commitment to inclusive sport
Beyond hosting competitions, Wellfit Gymnastics delivers year-round training programmes for children and young athletes of all abilities.
This includes dedicated gymnastics sessions and development programmes for People of Determination.
The facility aims to provide an accessible and supportive environment where every child can develop confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging through sport.
Partnership supporting athletes for years
Reflecting on the significance of UAE Games 2026 and the role of inclusive sporting opportunities, Dr. Eng. Sherif Afif Al Shami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Special Olympics UAE, said:
“I would like to thank Wellfit Gymnastics for its continued support of People of Determination over the past 6 to 7 years, a partnership that began with the 2019 Special Olympics.
Wellfit Gymnastics has provided excellent facilities and training environments that have enabled athletes to compete at a high level and we look forward to building on this success in the future.”
Gymnastics as a platform for inclusion
Sarah Mercer, Head of Gymnastics at Wellfit Gymnastics, said:
“Here, we believe sport should be accessible to everyone, regardless of ability or background. Hosting these competitions was a meaningful moment for the entire team, especially as some of the participating athletes train with us throughout the year.
Gymnastics builds confidence and discipline, and we are proud to support platforms that celebrate inclusion through sport.”
Athletes training under Mercer’s guidance reflected the diversity of the UAE’s sporting community, with participants representing a wide range of backgrounds, including Canadian Palestinian, New Zealander, Egyptian, Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian, and Spanish Moroccan nationalities.
UAE Games continue in Abu Dhabi
The Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics competitions formed part of the wider UAE Games 2026 programme, which continues in Abu Dhabi from 6 to 10 June.
The initiative reflects the UAE’s ongoing commitment to advancing inclusion in sport and creating more opportunities for People of Determination to participate and excel across multiple sporting disciplines.
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