Abdulla Al Nuaimi earned a gold medal, while Meena Al Mazrouei secured a bronze, marking a strong beginning for the UAE delegation at the inclusive global sports event.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – March 12, 2025 – The Special Olympics UAE delegation kicked off its participation in the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 with impressive wins, as Emirati athletes showcased their exceptional snowboarding skills. Abdulla Al Nuaimi earned a gold medal, while Meena Al Mazrouei secured a bronze, marking a strong beginning for the UAE delegation at the Games.
This achievement highlights the athletes’ commitment and the intensive training they’ve undergone in preparation for the Games. With 11 players representing the UAE in the competition, the medals reflect the dedication and hard work put into their development over recent months.
His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of the UAE Special Olympics, said: “We are incredibly proud of Abdulla Al Nuaimi and Meena Al Mazrouei’s outstanding performances at this year’s Special Olympics World Winter Games. These medals are a testament to their perseverance and the consistent support of our wise leadership for people of determination. Their success represents the spirit and values of the UAE, and we are confident they will continue to achieve great things as the Games progress.”
The 11 athletes representing the UAE in Turin have been selected from various clubs dedicated to people of determination across the country, including Al Thiqa Club for the Disabled, Ras Al Khaimah Club for People of Determination, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination, Ajman Club for Disabled and Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination.
Mohammad El Etri, Managing Director, Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, said: “The incredible achievement of Abdullah and Meena in winning medals at the Special Olympics World Winter Games – Turin 2025 fills us with immense pride. This success is not only a testament to their talent but also to their perseverance and the unwavering support of their coach, Leena Reda. Despite the challenges posed by the absence of natural snow in the UAE, Ski Dubai provided them with the chance to train relentlessly, fostering their growth and passion for winter sports. Leena’s guidance and inspiration were truly transformative, and this victory is a culmination of hard work, dedication, and belief in their potential.”
The Special Olympics UAE delegation maintains a strong presence in the World Winter Games, competing in six sports: snowboarding, cross-country skiing, figure skating, alpine skiing, short-track speed skating, and skateboarding. The UAE delegation, which is competing in the largest number of sports for a delegation from the region, is poised to make further progress in this inclusive global sporting event, which has attracted over 1,500 athletes and unified partners from 102 countries.
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Notes to Editors:
Special Olympics UAE athletes selected for the upcoming World Winter Games Turin 2025:
Yousef Al Mulla, Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS)
Mouza Al Hamed, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Ras Al Khaimah Club for People of Determination
Mina Al Mazrouei, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Khalifa Al Ameri, Dubai Club for People of Determination
Zulekha Al Mansoori, Ajman Club for Disabled
Kholoud Al Khoori, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Salma Al Salami, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Ahmed Al Jilani, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Hamda Al Hosani, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
Hazza Al Mehairbi, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination
About Special Olympics UAE:
In October 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Special Olympics UAE as an independent organization dedicated to changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Her Highness Sheikha Mariam Bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed as the Honorary President, and Her Excellency Shamma Bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.
The organization aims to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports while providing them with leadership opportunities to help them display their talents and integrate them with mainstream society.
Special Olympics UAE has launched a variety of community programs, including those focused on families and young athletes. It has also introduced a number of initiatives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create a more inclusive society.
The Special Olympics of the UAE received international recognition from the International Special Olympics Foundation-USA in December 2017.
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