His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE vice president and prime minister, and ruler of Dubai, hosted and congratulated the Emirati Paralympians, who won a total of seven medals at the Rio 2016 Games in Brazil.

The team, which comprised of a UAE record 18 members, won two golds, four silvers and one bronze in what was the most successful Paralympics for the nation so far, easily beating the previous best haul of four medals in Sydney and Athens.

Shooter Abdullah Sultan Al Aryani, who won gold at London 2012, secured three silver medals this time around.

The two golds came from Mohammed Khamis Khalaf and Mohamed Al Hammadi in powerlifting and athletics respectively, while Sara Al Senaani and Noura Al Ktebi became the first Emirati women to win medals with shot put bronze and silver.

After meeting the members of the team at Zabeel Palace yesterday, Sheikh Mohammed said: “The will conquers the impossible and no success is without resolve and determination.”

He hailed the champions on their efforts and also praised the UAE Disability Sports Federation, coaches, managers and all those who contributed to the training and preparation of the team that brought honour to the UAE.

The vice president also announced financial rewards to the team members. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai Crown Prince, was also present during the meeting.