What began as the Ministry of Youth and Sports in 1971 evolved into something greater. That something greater is the General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare. This is GAYSW. It stands as the supreme state-owned authority. GAYSW champions youth and sports across the United Arab Emirates.
Initially, Rashid Hamad bin Rahmah Al Shamsi headed the Ministry. In 1976, it merged with the Ministry of Education. Then, in 1999, the General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare emerged. Ali Abdul-Aziz Al Sharhan, Minister of Education, became its first chairman. In 2006, Abdul Rahman Mohammed Al Owais took over. He served until 2013. Since then, Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan has been at the helm of the General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare.
The UAEGAYSW strives to cultivate an appealing atmosphere. This atmosphere encourages young Emiratis to develop. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare wants them to grow physically and mentally. It also seeks to instill a strong sense of Emirati identity. Loyalty, belonging, and volunteering are key. The authority pays close attention to sports development.
The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare implements government policies. These policies relate to youth. It crafts plans and projects to achieve these policies. The authority also supervises youth organizations. This includes Scouts and Guides. It supports their activities. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare evaluates their performance.
The authority establishes youth centers. These are for both males and females. These centers are distributed across the country. They are based on geographic and population needs. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare coordinates with national and international bodies. It does this through partnerships and agreements.
The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare implements policies on sports. These policies cover competitive, recreational, and traditional sports. It also seeks to spread a sports culture. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare wants it to become a way of life. This enables the fight against related diseases.
The goal is to achieve outstanding results. Representing the UAE at regional, continental, and international events is a priority. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare takes measures to support disabled people. It also supports women in sports.
The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare oversees many institutions. These include youth centers. There are centers in Sharjah and Ajman. Girls’ centers are in Umm Al Quwain and Al-Fujairah. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare supervises sports councils in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. It also oversees sports committees and federations.
Since the formation of the UAE in 1971, sports have been a priority. The political leadership has given much attention to sports. This includes welfare and institutionalization. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare recognizes sports’ significant role. It aids the development and advancement of the nation. Establishing sports clubs falls under social development services.
The UAE provides support for sports. Modern sports facilities are constructed. These include football stadiums and car-racing tracks. The General Authority for Youth and Sports Welfare helps professionals and beginners alike.