In a landmark move towards inclusion and empowerment, Special Olympics UAE and Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide year-round training and winter sports competition opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The collaboration aims to prepare these athletes for the upcoming 2025 Special Olympics Winter Games in Italy.
The key component of this partnership is the provision of access to Majid Al Futtaim’s renowned indoor resorts – Ski Dubai and Snow Abu Dhabi – where Special Olympics athletes will receive specialized training in various snow sports disciplines. Ski Dubai’s experienced instructors will lead coaching sessions encompassing cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowboarding, ensuring a comprehensive preparation for the challenges that lie ahead.
The MoU outlines a multifaceted approach, focusing on talent identification, team building, skill development, performance monitoring, and overall readiness for competitions and events organized by Special Olympics UAE throughout the year. This holistic strategy underscores the commitment to nurturing and enhancing the capabilities of People of Determination in winter sports.
Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, emphasized the significance of forging community partnerships that positively impact athletes. He stated, “The MoU signed today with Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment will enhance the capabilities of People of Determination in four of the most important kinds of winter sports.” Al Hashemi highlighted the opportunity for athletes to train in world-class facilities, preparing them for participation in the prestigious World Winter Games scheduled in Italy next year.
Ignace Lahoud, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, expressed the organization’s commitment to working collaboratively with the UAE Special Olympics. He outlined Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment’s role in providing technical and logistical support, along with expertise, training facilities, and the necessary specialist resources and tools. This comprehensive backing aims to prepare the national team representing the UAE for success at the Special Olympics World Winter Games.
The partnership between Special Olympics UAE and Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment signifies a crucial step towards fostering inclusivity, breaking barriers, and providing individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to shine on the global stage of winter sports. As both entities join forces, the collective effort aims to create a lasting impact on the lives of these athletes, transcending boundaries and promoting a more inclusive and supportive community.
