Dubai:The UAE SWAT Challenge 2020 kicked off today (Sunday) with the participation of 54 teams from 30 countries who will compete in different scenarios as part of the region’s largest challenge event for special units and tactical teams.

‏The event is held under the patronage of Lt General Sheikh Saif Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and organised by the Dubai Police.

‏The SWAT Challenge, currently taking place at the Training City – Al Ruwayyah, runs until February 13, during which tactical teams are taking part in five competitions. They will be competing in different scenarios such as rescuing hostages or injured officers, rescuing officer, taking the tower challenge and overcoming obstacle courses.

‏Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, the Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, expressed his delight at the overwhelming participation of tactical teams for the second consecutive year. “This impressive participation reflects the interest of police forces from various countries worldwide to participate in such a major challenge to measure their efficiency and readiness.”

‏Maj. Gen Al Marri said the championship is the best evidence of the UAE’s internationally recognised reputation and excellent organisation of such a major event that distinguishes it on the global stage.

‏He said: “Our prudent leadership always forges with promoting tolerance, share of ideas and visions and opening new channels of communication with all countries across the world, out of its belief in the importance of knowledge sharing and exchange of expertise, which are the idea behind hosting and organising an international championship that brings together the best tactical units and teams.

‏Maj. Gen Al Marri referred to the first places clinched by Dubai Police teams during the first edition of the SWAT Challenge last year, a fact that reaffirms their professionalism in dealing with all events and performing their tasks in accordance with the previously determined time schedule.

‏His Excellency Major General Al Marri thanked all participating teams and wished them a good stay in the UAE and an outstanding participation throughout the three-day event.    

 ‏Major General Abdullah Al Ghaithi, Director of the General Department of Organisations Protective Security and Emergency at Dubai Police and Head of the UAE SWAT Challenge Organising Committee, said the key goal of the event is to exchange expertise with other teams and keep abreast of the best international practices in the field of rapid intervention units and special tactical teams.

‏Colonel Musabeh Al Ghafli, Coordinator General of the UAE SWAT Challenge 2020, said the Organising Committee capitalised on the resounding success of the 2019 edition to build on while preparing for the 2020 edition. He added that His Excellency Major General Al Marri directed the organisers to meet the needs of the participating teams, provide them with all forms of support, leaving positive impressions on the organising committee.

“This is a great incentive to continue to provide the best," he said, adding that everyone is keen to support the image of an institution that is open to others experiences and leave a positive impression about the UAE,” he added.