SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
As the premier summer sports hubs in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi Summer Sports (ADSS) and Al Ain Summer Sports (AASS) are transforming both ADNEC-Abu Dhabi and ADNEC-Al Ain into vibrant sporting destinations.
Catering to all ages and fitness levels, these camps promote a dynamic and health-focused lifestyle.
The ADSS camp runs until August 23, whereas the AASS camp extends through August 25.
In an interview with Aletihad, Ahmed Shaker, CEO of Capital 360 Event Experiences, shared the origins of the summer events and their purpose.
"The idea for ADSS and AASS originated three years ago from a desire to create a vibrant and engaging platform that encourages physical activity and promotes a healthy lifestyle during the summer months. Recognising the need for inclusive and accessible spaces where people of all ages and fitness levels could participate in sports, ADNEC Group, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, conceptualised ADSS and AASS."
According to Shaker, this year's ADSS and AASS have significantly expanded their range of core sports, doubling the offerings from eight to 16, marking a 63% increase.
Capital 360 Event Experiences also facilitated bookings with a new mobile app and web-based platform, he said.
This year's ADSS lineup features new activities such as action cricket, tennis, and an obstacle course, alongside returning sports like football, padel, badminton, volleyball, and table tennis.
The facilities include a Technogym functional fitness area, two football fields of different size, and a one-kilometre running track.
Similarly, AASS offers a diverse range of sports activities designed to enhance coordination, strength, endurance, strategy, and teamwork, providing a comprehensive sports experience for kids.
Both ADSS and AASS have launched a Kids Summer Camp to promote active lifestyles, with daily, three-day, and weekly pass options for children aged 4 to 15.
The camps include football, martial arts, padel, basketball, table tennis, badminton, tennis, and athletics.
Elaborating on the new features, Shaker said: "Comprehensive health and wellness features have been introduced, including health screenings, goal-setting programmes, and a recovery zone, to ensure a healthy and well-balanced summer for all participants. Additionally, Capital 360 Event Experiences in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council has crafted a schedule of mass participation events, such as yoga sessions and fun runs, to bring people of all ages and fitness levels together and foster a sense of community."
Shaker mentioned that the events offer tailored training sessions and workshops for all sports and fitness levels, comprising specialised kids' summer camps that fuse sports, creativity, and learning.
Experienced coaches provide both individual and group instruction.
Community Well-being
Shaker said that ADSS and AASS play a vital role in enhancing the well-being of the local community by offering a diverse range of sports and wellness activities suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
"Our comprehensive health and wellness features include health screenings, goal-setting programmes, and a recovery zone," he said.
Referring to future prospects, he noted that the company plans to expand health and wellness programmes, boost community engagement, and enhance digital platforms.
"Our plans for both events focus on continuous growth and enhancement to further solidify their position as the premier indoor sporting events in the region. We aim to introduce new and innovative activities each year to keep the events fresh and engaging for participants of all ages and fitness levels."
Hamdan Fadel, an Emirati 10th-grader and a participant of the camp said that ADSS offers a great environment for exercise.
"I play padel and use the gym here, enjoying the wide range of activities. It is unique because you can have fun with friends, with excellent facilities all in one place, like a sports mall," Fadel told Aletihad.
Ahmed Alhameli, an Emirati from Abu Dhabi who visited ADSS with his kids, said: "This is my first visit, and I am impressed by the excellent organisation and range of sports activities. The indoor running track, along with tennis and table tennis facilities, sets it apart from other gyms."
For Asma Othman, a Jordanian who has lived in Abu Dhabi for nearly 30 years, and visited the camp with her son, "the indoor facilities, including the running track, are perfect and the prices are great".
Oscar Alves, 17, from England who moved to Abu Dhabi three years ago, said the facilities are very convenient.
"ADSS has been great for me. I can play sports with friends in the summer. I have enjoyed volleyball and football-it is extremely enjoyable."