Special Olympics UAE launches Summer Camp in Sharjah and Ajman

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – July 7, 2025: Special Olympics UAE has announced the launch of the Special Olympics UAE Summer Camp, which kicks off on July 14, in collaboration with Jam Sports Academy. The Special Olympics UAE Summer Camp is organized in partnership with Al Thiqah Club for the Disabled, the Sharjah Sports Council, as well as Ajman Club for the Disabled and Ajman Government’s summer program. The camp will run until mid-August and aims to provide a supportive and active educational and athletic environment for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the summer.

On this occasion, His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, said: “The Special Olympics UAE Summer Camp reflects our ongoing commitment to creating high-quality opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities to grow and thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment. Developed in collaboration with People of Determination clubs and Government institutions, this initiative underscores the vital role of cross-sector collaboration in advancing impactful programs designed for People of Determination,”

He added: “Summer camps play an important role in keeping athletes active and engaged throughout the holidays. They ensure that time is invested in meaningful activities that enhance their physical, cognitive, and social skills, instilling healthy habits and nurturing self-confidence in an inclusive and supportive environment. We are grateful to our partners and stakeholders for their valuable contributions to the organization and execution of this camp.”

His Excellency Dr. Khalid Omar Al Midfa, Chairman of the Al Thiqah Club for the Disabled, expressed pride in the club’s participation in the Special Olympics UAE Summer Camp, describing it as a reflection of the spirit of collaboration among institutions in the ecosystem that supports People of Determination.

“These initiatives embody our vision at Al Thiqah Club to empower athletes and contribute to an inclusive sporting environment that allows them to develop their abilities and acquire new skills,” he said.

Dr. Al Midfa also praised the efforts of Special Olympics UAE, Jam Academy, and all partners involved in organizing this exceptional camp.

His Excellency Ahmed Ibrahim Rashed Al Ghamlasi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Ajman Club for the Disabled, said: “Our participation in the initiative stems from our ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering People of Determination through impactful programs that promote growth, independence, and unity. We are proud of to collaborate  with Special Olympics UAE and Jam Sports Academy, and we look forward to a fruitful summer season that reflects the aspirations of all our athletes. “

A Variety of Activities

The Summer Camp is organized as part of the Special Olympics UAE “Active Clubs Series” initiative, which aims to engage clubs and centers for People of Determination in athletic activities that promote inclusion, teamwork and sportsmanship.

The camp features a comprehensive program of sports, educational and recreational activities designed to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It offers a safe and engaging environment that helps participants develop new and existing skills.

The program includes various sports such as basketball, badminton, football, table tennis and the Fit-5 fitness program, all of which promote physical fitness and social integration and connection among the participants.

As part of the preparations for the Special Olympics UAE Summer Camp, a training workshop was held for coaches and staff from partner clubs to ensure the highest levels of professionalism and efficiency in program delivery.

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About Special Olympics UAE:

In October 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Special Olympics UAE as an independent organization dedicated to changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed as the Honorary President.

The organization aims to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports while providing them with leadership opportunities to help them display their talents and integrate them with the mainstream society.

Special Olympics UAE has launched a variety of community programs, including those focused on families and young athletes. It has also introduced a number of initiatives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create a more inclusive society.

The Special Olympics of the UAE received international recognition from the International Special Olympics Foundation-USA in December 2017. 

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