Dubai has introduced one of its most ambitious long-term sector strategies, outlining plans to double the annual economic output of the sports industry to AED18.3bn (USD5bn) by 2033.
The Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 aims to increase the number of residents participating in sport from 1.6 million to 2.6 million, while boosting annual attendance at major sporting events to 4.1 million—more than twice current figures.
This strategy forms a central component of Dubai’s broader vision to enhance quality of life, strengthen community wellbeing and reinforce its global competitiveness.
Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), unveiled the plan during an event at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex, attended by international athletes, sports leaders, federations, academies and industry stakeholders.
He also revealed Dubai’s new sports identity, chosen from thousands of public submissions.
The new emblem brings together the emirate’s sporting ecosystem and underscores Dubai’s aspiration to rank among the world’s foremost destinations for athletes, sporting events and sports innovation.
He stated: “We have launched a comprehensive and forward-looking vision for the future of sport in Dubai, one that enhances the sector’s competitiveness, creates new opportunities, nurtures young talent and strengthens Dubai’s global reputation as a centre for sporting excellence.”
“In the next phase, our focus will be on empowering both public and private clubs to reach international standards, expanding community participation and developing world-class facilities and infrastructure that reflect Dubai’s ambition and capability.”
“Our goal is for Dubai to become the world’s leading destination for sports and athletes by building a sports ecosystem that is dynamic, innovative and internationally competitive.”
The Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 is built around four pillars , Community, Events, Clubs and Talent—and comprises 19 programmes and 75 initiatives.
Its Primary Economic and Social Goals Include:
• Increasing the sports sector’s GDP contribution from AED10.17bn to AED18.3bn (USD5bn)
• Growing the number of residents who engage in sport from 1.6 million to 2.6 million
• Raising annual attendance at major sporting events from 1.67 million to 4.1 million
The Strategy Categorises 17 Priority Sports Under Three Groups:
• Emerging sports: padel, combat sports, Esports
• Community sports: running, swimming
• Sports with global appeal: golf, cricket, basketball
These classifications reflect global trends and local participation patterns, supporting competitiveness, sustainable sector expansion and Dubai’s international positioning.
