Dubai hosted the inaugural World Sports Summit on December 29-30, 2025, at Madinat Jumeirah, cementing its role as a global sports powerhouse. Under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, the event drew over 1,500 leaders, athletes, and experts from 50 countries under the theme “Uniting the World Through Sport”. Sessions tackled sports investment, digital transformation, governance, and sustainability.
Seventy speakers included FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who announced FIFA’s annual awards moving to Dubai from 2026, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, and football icons like Ronaldo, Alessandro Del Piero, and Andres Iniesta. Discussions spanned combat sports’ rise, AI in training, and cross-border partnerships, with Premier League and NFL executives sharing insights. The summit aligned with Dubai’s Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033, aiming to double events hosted and position the city as the world’s top sporting hub.
Key outcomes featured the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Sports Award and strategic MoUs for innovation and infrastructure. Dubai Sports Council Vice Chairman Khalfan Belhoul emphasized collaboration to address challenges like fan engagement and economic growth. The event showcased Dubai’s shift from hosting mega-events like Expo 2020 to shaping global sports policy.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What was the World Sports Summit’s theme and scale?
“Uniting the World Through Sport” drew 1,500+ leaders from 50 countries with 70 speakers at Madinat Jumeirah. It focused on investment, tech, governance, and sustainability for global sports growth.
2. Who were key speakers and highlights?
FIFA’s Gianni Infantino announced Dubai-hosted awards from 2026; Khabib Nurmagomedov discussed combat sports; stars like Ronaldo and Iniesta joined panels on innovation and partnerships.
3. How does it fit Dubai’s sports strategy?
Aligns with 2033 Strategic Plan to host double events, drive economy, and lead policymaking. Includes awards and MoUs for infrastructure, positioning Dubai as top sporting city.