Soaring Ahead: Volleyball Federation's Board Extended for New Electoral Term

UAE Volleyball Federation Extends Leadership Mandate Through 2028 in Overwhelming Vote

The UAE Volleyball Federation's General Assembly has voted decisively to extend the current board of directors' term through 2028, with 15 out of 16 participating clubs backing the leadership of Abdullah Jumaa Al Darmaki. The move signals continuity in the Emirates' volleyball development strategy as the sport gains momentum across the Gulf region.

Decisive Vote Reflects Confidence in Current Leadership

During an extraordinary meeting held at the National Olympic Committee headquarters in Dubai, the federation's member clubs delivered a resounding endorsement of Al Darmaki's administration. The vote saw participation from 16 of the federation's 19 member clubs, with only one dissenting voice among those present.

The session was convened under Article 35 of the federation's bylaws, which permits extraordinary general assemblies to address specific matters including board extensions. A representative from the Ministry of Sports attended the proceedings, underscoring the government's involvement in the country's sporting governance.

Strategic Timing for Regional Sports Development

The extension comes at a pivotal moment for UAE sports, as the country continues positioning itself as a regional hub for athletic excellence. The four-year mandate aligns with typical Olympic cycles and provides stability during a period when Gulf nations are investing heavily in sports infrastructure and talent development.

This approach mirrors successful models in neighboring countries, where consistent leadership has proven crucial for long-term sporting success. Qatar's sustained investment in sports governance ahead of the 2022 World Cup and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 sports initiatives demonstrate how regional continuity drives results.

Building on Previous Achievements

Al Darmaki expressed gratitude for the renewed confidence, emphasizing the collaborative approach that has characterized recent years. "The successes achieved in recent years came as a result of close cooperation between the board of directors and the general assembly, and we hope to continue this cooperation for the benefit of the sport," he stated following the vote.

The federation president highlighted plans to continue developing volleyball infrastructure and supporting member clubs in achieving greater competitive success. This focus on grassroots development reflects broader trends in UAE sports policy, which emphasizes building sustainable pathways from youth programs to elite competition.

Implications for UAE Volleyball's Future

The overwhelming support suggests member clubs are satisfied with the current direction and see value in maintaining established relationships and programs. For a sport that requires significant coordination between clubs, consistent leadership can accelerate development timelines and improve resource allocation.

The extended mandate also provides predictability for international partnerships and competitions, allowing the federation to make longer-term commitments to regional tournaments and development programs. This stability becomes particularly valuable as volleyball continues growing in popularity across the Emirates, driven by increased youth participation and improved facilities.

With government backing and strong club support, the UAE Volleyball Federation appears well-positioned to advance its objectives through 2028, potentially establishing new benchmarks for the sport's development in the broader Gulf region.