Rugby in the UAE has received a major boost after Dubai Airports pledged to sponsor the all-Emirati Shaheen Pathway programme.

The development programme focuses on local talent in the UAE by offering the 3,000 Emirati juniors in the School’s Player Pathway Programme a route to the national team, allowing them to compete internationally in IOC games and the Asian Games.

“UAERF is exceptionally pleased with Dubai Airports’ commitment to the future of our Emirati rugby players,” said Qais Al Dhalai, secretary general UAE Rugby.

“This sponsorship is of paramount importance to the strategic, sustainable and ongoing development of our Emirati player pool, preparing them for competitive rugby, and one that provides us with a strong foundation on which to work towards our goal of producing a proficient rugby players.” 

Dubai Airports’ backing of Shaheen will run for three years with the company’s logo gracing the team’s playing, training and travel kit, with its debut this weekend at the Amsterdam Rugby 7’s tournament.

Anita Mehra, vice president of marketing and corporate communications at Dubai Airports, added: “We are proud to support the grassroots Shaheen pathway Emirati development programme, which is aimed at attracting and encouraging thousands of UAE nationals to the sport of rugby, and create an international quality talent pool for the national side.

“This is in continuation of our efforts to support young Emirati talent across a spectrum of fields.