Dubai announces 2033 sport economy target
Chairman of Dubai Sports Council (DSC), Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced the launch of the Dubai Sports Sector strategic plan 2033, setting out a vision for the future of the city’s sports sector, reports the Emirates News Agency – WAM on November 13th.
The plans aim to boost the sector’s contribution to Dubai’s GDP from AED10.17 billion (£2 billion) to AED18.3 billion (£3.8 billion) per year, along with growing the number of residents participating in sports and raising attendances at major sporting events in Dubai.
The plans also include programmes and initiatives which intend to enhance sports infrastructure in the city. The plans identified 17 priority sports, consisting of three categories, emerging sports, community sports, and sports with global reach.
“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,” said Sheikh Mansoor.
“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.”
The Dubai Sports Sector Strategic Plan 2033 is in alignment with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which was launched earlier in 2025.
Earlier this month, Dubai’s economy saw a growth of 4.4% in the first half of 2025 to reach AED 241 billion (£50 billion), as a result of development in healthcare, construction, and financial services.
In the second quarter of 2025, Dubai’s GDP increased by 4.7% to AED 122 billion (£25 billion). Additionally, it was reported in October that the World Bank revised its growth forecast for the Middle East region.
This growth is reflected by stronger economic activity in the Gulf nations, including a quicker than expected rollback of oil production cuts and significant non-oil sector development, resulting in the lifted forecast.
Emirates News Agency – WAM, Maghrebi.org
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