The emirate of Abu Dhabi is preparing to celebrate the UAE’s first National Sports Day on November 25 with 100 events and activities set to take place including a National Sports Festival at Zayed Sports City.

The National Sports Day is an initiative introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE vice president, prime minister and ruler of Dubai, and comes under the slogan “UAE unites us”.

It aims to strengthen national identity and enhance social cohesion across the country.

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Zayed Sports City is spearheading one of the biggest events of the day with its festival running from 15:00 to 22:00 featuring more than 20 free-for-all activities.

Group workout sessions include Primal and Workout of the Day, plus Ladies-Only weight loss, Zumba and yoga sessions. 

Bowling lanes will be open throughout the evening, as well as billiards and table tennis. 

Guests can gear up for the Spinning Marathon, which is suitable for all fitness levels. The family-friendly event will also feature fun activities for younger children, 
including jumping castles. 

The National Sports Day 2015 coincides with the 44th National Day celebrations on December 2. 

Aref Al Awani, the secretary general of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “Sport is a universal language and the National Sports Day is a celebration of the UAE’s inclusiveness and multiculturalism.

“We look forward to a great turnout on the day and hope that the entire Abu Dhabi community participates in the different sports sessions, which offer something for everyone.”

The National Sports Festival is supported by National Health Insurance Company – Daman’s health and fitness initiative, ActiveLife. 

Dr. Michael Bitzer, Daman’s CEO, said: “We are proud to be part of the UAE’s first National Sports Day, and we see it as the beginning of a great tradition. As a community, we must focus on wellness and active lifestyles – together.

“Together we can make positive changes now that can improve our health, while at the same time setting a wonderful example for our nation’s young people. We are very much looking forward to seeing many people take part.”  

Daman’s ActiveLife Workout Challenges will take place from 17:00 to 18:00 for beginners, 18:00 to 19:00 for intermediates and 19:00 to 20:00 for experienced fitness fans. Tennis will be from 15:30 until 21:30. 

Basketball for different groups will start at 17:00 until 20:30. Bowling for all levels will run from 16:00 until 21:30. 

Children’s activities will be from 17:00 until 20:30 and ladies only sessions will go from 16:00 until 21:30. 

Events in the Western Region will include a street run in Al Marfa and a sporting festival at the ladies club in Dalma, with more activities scheduled to be staged in Al Ain.