Photo: WAM

Women in Abu Dhabi have a new recreational hub to look forward to, poised to add to the city’s sports landscape.

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union (GWU), President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood (SCMC), Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF) and the Mother of the Nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, inaugurated the new headquarters of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy in Abu Dhabi.

This monumental endeavour is a testament to the UAE’s visionary leadership’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive sports culture, one that empowers women and champions a holistic approach to wellbeing.

Nestled between the Erth Abu Dhabi Hotel and the Abu Dhabi Ladies Club, opposite the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the sprawling new headquarters spans approximately 13,870 square metres.

At its core, the academy serves as a beacon of Her Highness’  progressive vision, dedicated to enhancing the roles and status of women while enriching their lives through sports, culture, and social engagement.

Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza extended heartfelt gratitude to the Mother of the Nation, who is also her grandmother, for her unwavering support in advancing women’s empowerment initiatives and nurturing their transformative journeys, as well as commended Her Highness’ contributions to the achievements made by women of the UAE.

In her remarks, Sheikha Fatima underscored the architectural prowess of the new headquarters, highlighting it as a symbol of modern urban excellence and a cornerstone in the evolution of women’s sports. The academy aspires to add to the progress of women in the country, shaping a generation of athletes and fostering a culture of excellence.

Emphasising the transformative power of sports in societal development, Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza emphasised the importance of sports as a vital element in building society, spreading happiness and positivity in life, considering that sports are not just recreational and healthy activities, but a lifestyle that disciplines individuals.

Facilities At The New Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy Headquarters

As the newest addition to Abu Dhabi’s sporting tapestry, the academy boasts a diverse array of indoor and outdoor facilities, including a squash court, fencing hall, aerobics hall, and multipurpose sports hall.

It also houses a football field, an outdoor running track, and two padel courts.

Additionally, visitors can explore the library of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, which will serve as a hub for research in the field.

The building features the latest equipment, and smart operating systems that aim to meet the highest standards of quality, security, safety, and environmental sustainability, as well as the conservation of multiple energy resources.

A beacon of supporting sports in the UAE herself, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s social media presence also consists of expressing her interest in equestrianism and horses.