Abu Dhabi: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, The Zayed Sports Tournament returns this Ramadan at Erth Abu Dhabi with renewed momentum, celebrating 29 years of sustained excellence and enduring influence on the UAE’s sporting landscape.

Founded in honor of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the tournament embodies his belief that sport plays a vital role in nation-building. He championed athletic participation as a pathway to discipline, perseverance, and unity, laying the foundations for a well-established sports ecosystem that continues to empower communities across the country.

Since its launch in 1997, the tournament has grown into one of the UAE’s most established community sporting initiatives. Over nearly three decades, it has welcomed 43,247 athletes, engaged 742 teams, and attracted 72,120 visitors, with total prize allocations exceeding AED 29 million. These milestones underscore both its scale and its lasting significance within the national sporting calendar.

The 2026 edition takes place from 21st of February to 8th of March, offering a setting where spirited competition aligns with shared values of togetherness and respect. This year’s tournament features seven sports disciplines — Football (Men - Under 12 and 16), Jiu-Jitsu, Swimming, Gymnastics, Boxing, Chess, and Padel. Each game is delivered through a professionally governed structure that upholds technical standards and fair play while creating meaningful pathways for emerging talent.

Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Mohammed H. Al Kaabi, Chairman of Erth Abu Dhabi, stated: “For nearly three decades, the Zayed Sports Tournament has stood as a distinguished symbol of excellence, unity, and perseverance. By bringing together national and international teams on one platform, it continues to advance the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed, may his soul rest in peace, who believed that sport is a powerful catalyst for building community, shaping character, and creating a lasting legacy.

Shaikha Al Kaabi, Chief Executive Officer of Erth Abu Dhabi, stated: “The Zayed Sports Tournament is far more than a competition; it is a celebration of generations inspired, challenged, and united through the transformative power of sport.”

A central objective of the tournament is athlete development. Participants compete in a structured environment designed to test performance, strengthen resilience, and provide valuable exposure that supports long-term growth. Strategic collaboration with leading academies and sports federations ensures regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and athlete welfare across all competitions.

Beyond medals and rankings, the tournament advances a broader mission: promoting active lifestyles, fostering social connection, and reinforcing principles that sustain national progress. It stands as a continuing tribute to a vision that positioned sport as a force for unity and advancement.

As preparations gather pace, the 2026 edition is set to deliver a dynamic lineup defined by distinction, inclusivity, and enduring purpose. This year’s tournament is expected to welcome around 1,000 national and international athletes, with the total prize money amounting to AED 1,000,000. The event is also projected to attract more than 2,500 visitors.

The Tournament is organized by Erth Abu Dhabi and Etizan Fitness, in collaboration with the UAE Boxing Federation, 4th Lane Academy, Little Stars Academy, The Force for Sport, and Abu Dhabi Chess Club & Mind Games.