ADSS 2025 unites Abu Dhabi through sports and fitness this summer

Al Etihad

4 days ago

25 June 2025 01:45
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)For many UAE residents determined to stay active amid rising temperatures, taking part in Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS) has become yearly routine — and the annual event's organisers have made sure there's always something exciting to look forward to.Known as the Middle East's biggest indoor summer sports event, ADSS is now in full swing and will continue until August 21. It runs from 6am to 1am every day at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.Hosted by ADNEC Group in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council, ADSS 2025 features over 50 inclusive community events and summer camps, plus the launch of the HYROX indoor fitness race on July 19.Abdullah Al Hashimi, an engineer who lives in Abu Dhabi, is a regular ADSS participant.'This is my third or fourth year attending the event … and the organisation improves year after year. This time, the expansion and relief from the summer heat really stood out.'The ADSS venue has been expanded by 10% to over 37,000 square metres, with 52 courts and tracks, including an enhanced 1.2km running track.Al Hashimi lauded the variety of sports that people can take part in throughout the fest.
'From basketball to new additions like fencing — there is something for everyone. It brings people together in a healthy, energetic setting,' he told Aletihad . The all-new Club Zone also provides a venue for combat sports and strength training, such as weightlifting, archery, judo, muay thai, and boxing.These distinctive improvements were all based on community feedback, said Ahmed Shaker, CEO of Capital 360 & Events, the ADSS organiser.
'Community feedback is at the heart of how Abu Dhabi Summer Sports has evolved. Each year, we actively listen to what our visitors want, whether that's more space, new sports, or easier access, and we use that input to shape the experience,' Shaker told Aletihad . 'We have also brought in new classes, including judo, muay thai, and jiu-jitsu, all based on popular demand from the community. We aim to create an event that reflects the needs and interests of the people we serve,' he added.
For Sports Lovers and FamiliesFor businesswoman and long-distance runner Hanan Mahmoud, ADSS is a saviour, a much-needed fitness space this season. 'It saved us [sports lovers] from the heat… Summer makes it almost impossible to train, but here we have returned to the sport we love, uninterrupted,' she said.Emphasising the importance of sports in her life, Mahmoud said: 'After workouts, my mindset shifts - I become calmer and more accepting of pressure. Sport has become key in my life emotionally and mentally.'Parents consider ADSS a big help, too, as it engages children in exciting physical activities throughout the school break.Majid Al Zaabi, father of three kids aged 7 to 10, praised the event. 'Instead of letting our children sit in front of screens, we invite them to participate in marathons and events … The place is air-conditioned and enclosed, which is important in the summer heat.'Al Zaabi said his children love running and ball games, and at ADSS, aside from being able to do sports, they get to expand their social circles, too.ADSS offers summer camps that are designed to be both fun and enriching for children, said Shaker.'Children participate in sports like football, martial arts, and tennis, while also enjoying storytelling, arts and crafts, and strategy games like chess that encourage critical thinking. These camps promote physical development alongside educational growth, providing a well-rounded summer experience,' he added.Coach Ahmed Elkouk encouraged the early introduction of sports to youngsters.'Children can start young and become champions if they have talent. We must encourage them to love sports early,' he said.
Uniting Communities ADSS has also prioritised accessibility and inclusivity, allowing people of determination - of all ages - to take part in activities.'Our programming is designed to be safe, inclusive, and welcoming. Trained staff, first aid, and emergency response teams are available at all times to ensure the health and safety of all participants,' Shaker said.
ADSS and AASS in Al Ain offer much more than sports, he said. 'They are a direct contribution to national goals around wellbeing and community engagement. These events promote physical activity and provide a space for families, friends, and community members to come together. Sports connect and unite people through competition.'