Abu Dhabi Sports Council gains expanded regulatory authority to strengthen sector governance

The Abu Dhabi Executive Council has expanded the remit of Abu Dhabi Sports Council to encompass licensing of sporting establishments and professional accreditation of sports practitioners, reinforcing the emirate's position as a premier global sports destination.

The Abu Dhabi Executive Council has issued a resolution conferring substantial new responsibilities upon Abu Dhabi Sports Council, establishing a more comprehensive regulatory framework for the emirate’s sports sector. The expanded mandate encompasses the regulation and licensing of sporting establishments and entities across Abu Dhabi, alongside the granting of professional accreditation and licences to sports professionals operating within these facilities.

These newly conferred powers represent a strategic consolidation of the regulatory architecture governing Abu Dhabi’s sports industry. By centralising licensing authority and professional credentialing under a unified body, the emirate aims to cultivate a more cohesive and professionally rigorous environment for sports operations throughout the region.

Building an Integrated Sports Ecosystem

The resolution is designed to advance the development of an integrated sports ecosystem in Abu Dhabi by substantially strengthening the sector’s regulatory and professional frameworks. Through enhanced oversight of establishments and practitioners, the initiative seeks to elevate service quality across the sports industry whilst simultaneously improving operational efficiency and workforce competency.

The expanded regulatory scope will be exercised in coordination with relevant authorities, ensuring that licensing and accreditation processes remain aligned with the broader governance structures and strategic objectives of the emirate.

Regulatory Implementation and Governance

The Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi Sports Council will be responsible for developing detailed regulations governing the licensing of sports establishments and entities, as well as the frameworks for professional accreditation and licensing of sports practitioners throughout the emirate. These regulatory instruments will be subject to approval by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council before implementation, maintaining appropriate oversight of the regulatory process.

Reinforcing Global Sporting Leadership

The resolution further strengthens Abu Dhabi Sports Council’s instrumental role in advancing the emirate’s sports sector development and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s established position as a leading global sports destination. By establishing more rigorous regulatory and professional standards, the initiative supports the emirate’s continued capacity to attract and host major international sporting events and championships, in keeping with Abu Dhabi’s broader vision and future strategic aspirations.

Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office