The Dubai Sports Council hosted the first World Sports Summit under the patronage of the emirate’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The event brought together more than 1,500 industry figures – from active athletes to federation heads and sports administrators. On the second day, the emphasis shifted from motivational speeches to practical issues: athlete well-being, technology, and financial models. Speakers included:
- Tennis players Novak Djokovic and Ons Jabeur
- Boxers Manny Pacquiao and Oleksandr Usyk
- UFC fighter Michael Page
- Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Nazário
- Khabib Nurmagomedov
- Italians Roberto Baggio and Alessandro Del Piero
- PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi in conversation with former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch
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Practical substance instead of inspiration
Sessions examined the use of artificial intelligence in training methods, methods of audience engagement through digital channels, the development of women’s sport, and the social impact of active lifestyles. Pacquiao put it bluntly: “Believe in yourself, work hard, and focus on the heritage that will motivate the next generation.” UFC fighter Michael Page added a practical angle: “You need patience and motivation. Even a short time here inspired me to return to training and prepare for my next fight.” Key summit themes included:
- Fan acquisition and retention strategies
- AI applications in athletics and training
- Economic models for women’s sport
The summit supports Dubai’s Strategic Plan for Sports Sector Development through 2033, which aims to double the sector’s economic contribution to AED 18.3 billion (€4.25 billion). This figure is tracked as closely as real estate market news today Dubai, because sports infrastructure directly affects the emirate’s overall investment appeal.
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Why Dubai wants to sit at the center of global sport
Dubai is investing heavily in sports facilities and regularly hosts international tournaments – football, tennis, golf, and cricket run almost year-round. Every major competition brings sponsors, tourists, and global media exposure, which also helps explain Fujairah property market explained and neighbouring emirates – growth in one hub pulls the entire regional cluster forward. The logic is clear: global sport is evolving rapidly, and Dubai aims to become a decision-making hub. From offices to locker rooms, the emirate is building concrete financial flows designed to operate through 2033 and beyond.
