The city of Dubai has been awarded the prestigious BWF Physical Activity Award, recognizing its outstanding efforts in promoting physical activity and badminton. This accolade coincides with the celebration of the 10th anniversary of Shuttle Time Dubai, a program that has significantly contributed to the development and popularization of badminton in the region, as well as the celebration of World Badminton Day.
Celebrating a Decade of Shuttle Time Dubai
Shuttle Time Dubai was launched on 1st July 2014, marking the beginning of an incredible journey in the world of badminton. Over the past decade, the program has grown exponentially, establishing Dubai as a prominent badminton hub. With over 44 academies and clubs, the city provides unparalleled accessibility to the sport. Some of the top junior players in the BWF Junior Rankings and current Olympic champions now take Dubai as their training hub.
The success of Shuttle Time Dubai is also reflected in its robust workforce, which includes over 1000 trained teachers, over 900 trained coaches, and more than 300 trained technical officials. The establishment of the UAE Badminton Federation in 2022 has further ensured the sustainability and continuous growth of the sport in the UAE.
Today, the BWF recognizes Dubai’s remarkable efforts by awarding the city the first-ever Global Best Practice Model for Physical Activity and Activation. This recognition highlights Dubai’s pioneering role in promoting physical activity and its commitment to making badminton accessible to everyone.
Quotes from Key Figures
HE Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, stated, “This award is a testament to our commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in Dubai. The success of Shuttle Time Dubai reflects our dedication to providing world-class facilities and opportunities for our community to engage in sports, particularly badminton. We are proud to see Dubai recognized on a global stage and look forward to continuing our efforts in collaboration with our partners.”
David Cabello, Chair of the Development and Sport for All Committee at the BWF, remarked, “Dubai has set a remarkable example in promoting badminton and physical activity. The city’s efforts have not only made badminton more accessible but have also created a sustainable model that other regions can follow. We are thrilled to honor Dubai with this award and celebrate the incredible achievements of Shuttle Time Dubai over the past decade.”
As we look to the future, the prospects for badminton in Dubai are incredibly bright. The ongoing partnership with the Dubai Sports Council, the UAE Badminton Federation, and the BWF promises even greater achievements in the years to come.
