Dubai: Let the Gov Games begin; UAE officials sweat it out for ultimate prize

Dubai Festival City was buzzing with excitement as teams from around the world gathered for the fifth edition of the Gov Games. Government officials competed in a series of challenging tasks, vying for the ultimate prize. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and the wind added to the thrill.

The stakes were high, with substantial cash prizes awaiting the victors in addition to the thrill of the competitions themselves. The top teams in the adult categories will secure a grand prize of Dh500,000, while the second and third place winners will receive Dh250,000 and Dh150,000 respectively. The allure of these rewards had drawn participants from far and wide, ready to push their limits and showcase their endurance and teamwork.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, attended competitions in the Battle of Government — women’s categories on the first day.

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Malik Al Nuaimi, a male participant competing in the Community Category, shared his anticipation for the upcoming challenges. As a member of the CrossFit Alain team, Malik expressed his excitement for the games and the rigorous training he had undergone in preparation.

“We have been training a whole year for these games, but intensively for the last two months. We will be competing on Saturday and this time we are aiming for the first place,” Malik told Khaleej Times.

As an athlete, he understood the importance of focus and resilience, and he was determined to secure a first-place victory for his team. Malik appreciated the support of the country, recognising the immense benefits of sports in their daily lives.

The Director of Gov Games, Marwan Eisa, shed light on the evolution and expansion of the event. He explained that the tournament had initially started as a government championship in 2018, but due to public demand and requests from global cities and governments, it had expanded its reach. Marwan highlighted the success of the tournament, with the participation of 28 of the strongest cities for the second time, a testament to the growing popularity and significance of the Gov Games.

As the games unfolded, spectators from various backgrounds and ages joined in the excitement. Among them was nine-year-old Michael Sayegh from Syria along with his father, Youssef Sayegh. Michael was attending the Gov Games for the second time to support his mother who is participating with the Department of Tourism and Economy team.

“I think this time the place is much nicer, the open area is perfect for the games and for the kids to play around and enjoy their time,” Youssef said.

• Dubai: Win prizes, cars as you watch officials battle it out during Gov Games