The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to make history by declaring yoga a competitive sport, becoming the first Gulf nation to formally recognize the ancient Indian practice in this way. This move highlights the strong cultural ties between India and the UAE, home to nearly four million Indians who have boosted yoga’s popularity there. At the same time, plans for an India House in Abu Dhabi aim to deepen these connections through art, education, and wellness.
The announcement came from the second Joint Steering Committee Meeting of the India-UAE Cultural Council, held in Abu Dhabi on October 8-9, 2025. The Indian team, led by Nandini Singla, Director-General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), met UAE officials under Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs. Discussions focused on youth engagement, sports, tourism, and culture, with yoga emerging as a key area. A UAE Yoga Committee, under the Ministry of Sports, is now drafting rules for competitions, referee training, and youth programs. This builds on events like the 6th Asian Yogasana Championship in Fujairah in August 2025, which drew 160 athletes from 16 countries.
The India House, expected to open within two years, will serve as a cultural hub in Abu Dhabi. It will showcase Indian heritage, host workshops, exhibitions, and student exchanges, while featuring dedicated yoga training spaces. UAE Ambassador Abdullah Alshaali called it a “symbol of the creative spirit” uniting the nations. This follows the 2024 opening of the BAPS Hindu Mandir, the first stone Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
These steps strengthen the India-UAE strategic partnership, signed in 2022 during PM Modi’s visit. They promote people-to-people links, with yoga fostering wellness and India House celebrating shared history. Experts say this could inspire more global recognition for yoga and boost tourism and education exchanges.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
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Why is UAE declaring yoga a competitive sport?
Due to yoga’s growing popularity among Indians and locals, the UAE aims to create formal rules, competitions, and training programs. It hosted the Asian Yogasana Championship in 2025 to promote fitness and cultural ties with India. -
What will the India House in Abu Dhabi include?
It will be a cultural center for Indian art, heritage, exhibitions, student exchanges, and yoga training. Expected in two years, it strengthens bilateral ties and showcases shared history between India and UAE. -
When and where was the key meeting held?
The second Joint Steering Committee Meeting occurred on October 8-9, 2025, in Abu Dhabi. It involved Indian and UAE officials discussing culture, sports, and education to enhance strategic partnerships.