Today's Edition
AMEINAH ZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub (ADCSH) has opened parts of its world-class complex to the public free of charge during off-peak hours as part of a six-week community initiative aimed at widening access to sport and encouraging healthier lifestyles
The programme, titled "Sports Hub Cares", runs until May 31 and offers complimentary morning access to a range of facilities, including swimming and racquet sports such as padel, tennis and squash on weekdays.
Weekend cricket sessions are also being held in partnership with Zayed Cricket Academy, with coaching led by an ICC-accredited instructor.
The free access offer is part of a broader strategy by the venue to place accessibility and participation at the centre of its community outreach, with the opening phase running until April 29. Families have already begun taking advantage of the offer.
"The initiative is a unique and significant opportunity for families," said Umm Mohammad Al Ali, a mother of four. "Finding activities that are affordable and suitable for all four kids might be challenging. This project opens opportunities rather than just facilities.
"Being part of something greater in the community makes my kids feel invigorated, included, and truly joyful. Seeing them disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other is what makes it special. That is invaluable for me as a mother."
Parents also pointed to the wider developmental value of sport for children. "This is an investment in our families and future generations, not just free access," said Abu Hazza, a father of three. "Children who participate in sports develop self-control, self-assurance, and teamwork. These kinds of initiatives help people make lifelong memories.
"It also gives parents peace of mind. We are certain that our kids are in a top-notch, secure setting where they can play, learn, and develop."
The initiative will also feature a one-day Playfest Carnival at Zayed Cricket Stadium on April 24, aimed at children aged four to 10, with a mix of football, rugby and netball in a festival-style environment.
Young participants are already looking forward to the event. "I have never experienced anything like this," said Abdulla Mohammad. "Football, cricket, and possibly even sports I've never heard of are sports I'd like to try. I can't wait to meet new people and enjoy playing. It feels like a big sports party just for kids like us."
Phase 1 of the initiative, until next Wednesday, gives individuals and families a chance to enjoy complimentary access in the morning, thus removing traditional barriers to participation and encouraging more active, connected lifestyles.
Sessions for swimming, padel, tennis and squash from 9am to noon are free of charge. For cricket aspirants, weekend junior and senior sessions will be every Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am with an accredited coach.
In a statement, the ADCSH Chief Executive Officer Matthew Boucher said the project "is about stepping up for our community when it matters most. At its heart, the initiative is about connection – bringing people together, fostering wellbeing, and reinforcing sport's role as a powerful social driver.
"By opening our facilities... we are creating real opportunities for families and individuals to engage with sport in a meaningful way, strengthening our commitment to using sport as a force for good and amplifying its impact."
Boucher said this is about uniting efforts under one "cohesive platform to maximise reach and simplify access" for everyone from aspiring athletes to casual participants.
