Hamdan bin Zayed Inaugurates Comprehensive Community Sports Center in Ghayathi

Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan opened a new community sports center in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region, emphasizing the UAE leadership's commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and improving quality of life. The Ghayathi Community Sports Center represents the government's vision of making sports a cornerstone of sustainable development while building stronger community bonds.

The opening ceremony reflects President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's broader strategy to integrate sports into the UAE's comprehensive development plans. This aligns with the "Year of Community" initiative, which aims to strengthen social participation and create a more cohesive society.

During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan toured the facility's various amenities designed to boost sports and community activities in the region. The center supports Abu Dhabi government and Abu Dhabi Sports Council goals of encouraging healthy living and raising life quality standards in Al Dhafra.

Sheikh Hamdan called on community members of all ages to make sports a daily habit, noting its positive impact on both physical and mental health. He stressed that sports help build a more active and productive society while fostering cooperation and belonging among residents.

**Modern Facilities for All**

The Ghayathi center offers comprehensive sports facilities serving different community segments. It features separate areas for men and women, plus multiple spaces for various sports and recreational activities.

The main highlight is a multi-purpose sports hall accommodating four major sports: football, basketball, volleyball, and handball. This setup meets diverse community needs while encouraging competition and fitness.

The facility also includes two international-standard swimming pools and dedicated fitness halls. Separate aerobics rooms for men and women promote group exercise and daily physical activity. Additional amenities include a children's nursery, administrative offices, and retail spaces.

Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, thanked Sheikh Hamdan for his continued support of sports and community sectors in Al Dhafra region. He described the center as a model for modern sports facilities that serve all community segments and help establish sports as a lifestyle.

**Strategic Investment**

This development comes as the UAE continues investing heavily in sports infrastructure across the country. The government views community sports centers as essential tools for achieving its wellness and social cohesion objectives.

For the Al Dhafra region specifically, the center addresses a growing need for accessible sports facilities as the area's population expands. It provides residents with professional-grade amenities previously available mainly in major urban centers.

The timing also supports the UAE's broader health initiatives, which have gained momentum following the COVID-19 pandemic. Community sports facilities play a crucial role in encouraging physical activity and reducing lifestyle-related health issues.