Under the patronage of the Ministry of Sports and in collaboration with the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, the UAE Committee for Talent and Sports Support (UAETSS) has signed five agreements aimed at integrating emerging athletes into modern sailing development programmes designed to strengthen the UAE’s competitiveness in marine sports.
The agreements form part of the Committee’s ongoing efforts to identify, nurture, and develop promising sporting talent while creating long-term pathways for athletes to progress towards elite-level competition.
Five athletes join modern sailing development pathway
The newly signed agreements will support the development of Khalifa Ahmed Al Rumaithi, Hamad Fahad Meshal Al Muhairi, Zayed Omar Rajab Al Hosani, Cornelia Bayonk, and Gian Herve.
Each athlete will receive structured training and development support through programmes specifically designed to prepare them for national and international competition in modern sailing.
The initiative falls under the Committee’s Pathway for Sports Champion programme, which seeks to expand the UAE’s talent pool, diversify areas of sporting excellence, and create sustainable systems for athlete development.
As a result, participants will benefit from tailored programmes that provide the technical skills, competitive experience, and support needed to progress within the sport.
Agreements signed in presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan
The agreements were signed in the presence of Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation.
H.E. Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sports Development and Competitiveness Sector at the Ministry of Sports and Chairman of the UAETSS, signed the agreements with the athletes’ parents.
Building a new generation of champions
Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan said the agreements represent an important step in discovering and developing national talent.
He highlighted their role in building a new generation of athletes capable of representing the UAE and raising the nation’s flag at regional and international competitions.
Sheikh Ahmed also praised the Ministry of Sports for its continued support of initiatives that strengthen the national sporting ecosystem. In addition, he highlighted the role of the Committee in creating an environment where athletes can develop and achieve their ambitions.
He also acknowledged the contribution of parents as key partners in the athlete development journey, commending their commitment to supporting and encouraging their children to pursue sporting excellence.
Long-term development remains a priority
Speaking on the initiative, H.E. Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum emphasised that the agreements reflect the Committee’s ongoing commitment to identifying and developing talented athletes across a range of sports in partnership with key stakeholders.
His Excellency highlighted the importance of establishing an integrated pathway that supports athletes from an early age through comprehensive long-term development programmes.
“These initiatives offer the necessary training, in addition to technical and administrative support, to assist athletes in realising their potential, progress towards professional standards, and represent the UAE globally, while contributing to the objectives of the National Sports Strategy 2031.”
Comprehensive support for future talent
His Excellency further explained that the Committee adopts a comprehensive institutional approach to athlete development under the supervision of the Ministry of Sports and in cooperation with the UAE National Olympic Committee, Elite Sport UAE (ESUAE), and national sports federations.
Through this collaborative approach, athletes receive the technical, administrative, and developmental support required to compete at the highest international levels.
Moreover, His Excellency noted that the agreements will strengthen efforts to develop future sailing talent while empowering young athletes in specialised marine sports disciplines.
Access to world-class training and international opportunities
Under the agreements, the athletes will receive comprehensive support packages that include access to world-class training facilities, customised training programmes, and participation in local and international training camps.
In addition, they will have opportunities to compete in official championships while benefiting from full administrative support throughout their development journey.
The programme also aims to maintain a balance between sporting commitments and academic achievement, reflecting the UAE’s vision of developing well-rounded athletes.
To ensure continuous progress, each athlete will be monitored by specialised experts and certified coaches, supported by national technical staff. Their development will be assessed through transparent, science-based evaluation systems aligned with international standards.
Ultimately, the initiative reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to investing in future sporting talent and strengthening its presence in specialised marine sports on the global stage.
Subscribe To The Mettle Mail
