In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the summer heat can be intense, residents have found a way to stay active and engage in sports even during the scorching season. Thanks to the availability of weather-proof fitness facilities across the country, people have no excuse to skip workouts and training sessions.
As the summer heat reaches its peak, crowds can be seen flocking to indoor sports arenas. Hundreds of individuals take turns at courts, and outdoor areas are still utilized, albeit mostly after sunset when the temperatures are more bearable.
For Faheem Amr, a 31-year-old resident of Deira, staying active during the summer has become part of his daily routine. He looks forward to his evening workouts at open sports arenas in Dubai. In the past, he struggled to maintain his fitness during the hot months, but now, he finds joy and motivation in engaging in physical activities.
The sports arenas have become more than just places for fitness; they serve as hubs of social interaction where people from different corners of the globe come together. Beyond the physical benefits, Amr values the opportunity to meet new people, form connections, and share a common love for sports.
Abdul Rahman, a Sudanese national, shares a similar sentiment. For him and his colleagues, playing badminton games after work is a cherished activity, regardless of the weather. They prefer the outdoors and opt for football and badminton matches before heading home. With several fields and courts available in Dubai and Sharjah, they make the most of these facilities, enjoying the camaraderie and competition.
Sports arena owners have noticed the popularity of exercise and sports sessions during summer evenings when the temperatures are more tolerable. At Danube Sports World, a renowned facility in Dubai, a large number of individuals use the air-conditioned facility for various activities, including public court bookings, neighborhood games, corporate events, sports meet-ups, physical training, and professional sporting events.
Among the sports offered, padel tennis has emerged as the number one favorite among residents. Football, badminton, and cricket remain popular staples. The facility has become a vibrant space for both fitness enthusiasts and sports lovers to come together and pursue their passions.
Similarly, Goltay Cricket Academy in Abu Hail has experienced an increase in the number of sports enthusiasts visiting their hub every day. Serving primarily the residents of Deira and the northern neighborhoods of the city, the academy witnesses friendly matches of football and cricket happening every weekend. Residents’ dedication to their fitness journeys is commendable, and they are willing to wait for over an hour to participate in sports during the summer months.
At Goltay Cricket Academy, the courts are buzzing as early as 5 pm, and the venue operates 24 hours, accommodating bookings until the early hours of the morning on weekends. This flexibility allows individuals to engage in sports at their convenience, fostering a vibrant sports culture in the region.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the UAE’s thriving fitness culture is a testament to the resilience and determination of its residents. The availability of well-equipped and air-conditioned sports arenas, along with the shared passion for sports and physical activity, fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among people from diverse backgrounds and nationalities.
Embracing the heat, UAE residents have found a way to stay fit, have fun, and create lasting memories through sports. Whether it’s competing on the court or bonding with fellow enthusiasts, these sports arenas have become cherished spaces where active living and social connections flourish.
