Dubai Showcases Aquatic Excellence with Open Water and Water Polo Events at DIAC
The Dubai International Aquatics Championships (DIAC) continued to make waves with its open water swimming and water polo competitions, held on April 5 and 6 at the Hamdan Sports Complex.
Part of the month-long aquatic showcase running from March 21 to April 20, 2025, these events were hosted in collaboration with the UAE Swimming Federation, Dubai Sports Council, and local academies. Drawing more than 380 athletes, the competitions spotlighted both endurance and team strategy in two of the sport's most demanding disciplines.
The water polo tournament on April 5 featured teams from various countries, reflecting the sport's growing momentum across the region. The fast-paced matches highlighted skill and teamwork, drawing enthusiastic support from spectators. Following this, over 300 swimmers took to the waters for the open water races on April 5 and 6, braving long distances in tests of stamina and technique.
DIAC, one of the Middle East's premier aquatics events, features five disciplines: diving, water polo, open water swimming, synchronised swimming, and swimming. With over 3,000 elite athletes from 40 countries participating, the championship serves as a global hub for aquatic sports talent.
Abdullah Shahdad, Director of Hamdan Sports Complex, emphasised the importance of diversifying aquatic offerings. 'Hosting a full spectrum of disciplines, including open water swimming and water polo, reinforces our commitment to growing aquatic sports in the UAE and beyond,'
he said.
As the competition progresses, DIAC continues to cement Dubai's status as a leading international destination for world-class sports events.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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