When the summer sun blazes over Abu Dhabi, many people assume it’s time to retreat indoors until cooler weather returns. But in reality, summer has become one of the most active seasons of the year. From purpose-built indoor arenas to community-led fitness challenges, Abu Dhabi Summer Sport has evolved into a vibrant movement, inspiring residents to get moving, stay healthy, and connect with others.
At the same time, organisations such as Mubadala Health are stepping up to support this drive for better well-being. They offer health screenings, educational resources, and specialised programmes that complement the city’s sporting scene. Together, Abu Dhabi’s sporting and healthcare sectors are transforming how we think about summer, proving that high temperatures don’t have to mean low energy.
The Rise of Abu Dhabi Summer Sport
Over the last decade, Abu Dhabi has invested heavily in infrastructure that makes year-round fitness possible. The Abu Dhabi Summer Sport initiative is at the heart of this effort.
Hosted primarily at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), this annual indoor sporting festival converts thousands of square metres of space into courts, tracks, and pitches. Whether you’re into basketball, badminton, five-a-side football, or running, there’s an activity to suit every age and fitness level.
In addition to traditional sports, the event includes:
- Family fitness zones, encouraging parents and children to exercise together.
- Women-only areas, providing a safe space for women to engage in sport.
- Wellness workshops, covering nutrition, injury prevention, and mental health.
What sets Abu Dhabi Summer Sport apart is its focus on inclusivity. You don’t need to be an elite athlete or gym enthusiast to join in. The programme is designed to be accessible, affordable, and welcoming to all backgrounds and abilities.
Why Staying Active in Summer Matters
It’s easy to understand why so many residents feel tempted to scale back their exercise routines when temperatures climb above 40°C. But health experts agree that regular activity is essential all year round.
According to Mubadala Health, consistent movement helps:
- Keep cardiovascular health in check.
- Reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
- Support healthy weight management.
- Improve mood and reduce anxiety.
The key is to adapt. Instead of running outdoors at midday, Abu Dhabi Summer Sport allows you to keep fit in safe, climate-controlled environments. Many gyms and community centres also extend their opening hours over summer, making it easier to find time for exercise before or after work.
Mubadala Health’s Role in Supporting Wellbeing
While sporting events build motivation and community spirit, proper healthcare ensures everyone can participate safely. Mubadala Health, one of the UAE’s leading healthcare networks, plays a critical role in this ecosystem.
1. Health Screenings and Check-Ups
Before starting a new exercise programme, it’s important to know your baseline health. Mubadala Health offers preventive screenings tailored to your age and medical history, including:
- Blood pressure and cholesterol checks.
- Blood sugar testing.
- Musculoskeletal assessments to spot injury risks.
2. Injury Prevention and Physiotherapy
Active lifestyles can occasionally lead to strains and sprains. Mubadala Health’s clinics provide physiotherapy, sports medicine consultations, and rehabilitation services to get you back on track quickly and safely.
3. Educational Resources
Through workshops and online content, Mubadala Health shares evidence-based advice on topics such as:
- Hydration strategies in extreme heat.
- Healthy eating to fuel active days.
- Recognising signs of heat exhaustion.
Their efforts ensure that Abu Dhabi residents don’t just stay active—they stay informed and supported.
Indoor Venues That Keep You Moving
One of the secrets to Abu Dhabi’s thriving summer sport culture is its outstanding indoor facilities. Here are a few popular venues to explore:
- ADNEC Indoor Sports Halls
Home to the Abu Dhabi Summer Sport festival, these halls are transformed into multi-purpose arenas with professional-standard courts and pitches. - Zayed Sports City
Known for its ice rink and bowling centre, Zayed Sports City also offers indoor tennis courts and fitness classes throughout the summer. - Fitness First and Gold’s Gym Branches
These gyms are widespread across Abu Dhabi and often run summer promotions, making membership more accessible. - Community Centres
Many neighbourhood centres host indoor yoga, Pilates, and dance classes for all ages.
Making Fitness a Family Affair
One of the most positive aspects of Abu Dhabi Summer Sport is how it brings families together. For parents, the long school holidays can be challenging, but sport provides a structured, healthy outlet for kids’ energy.
Family benefits include:
- Stronger bonds: Exercising together builds trust and teamwork.
- Healthy habits: Children are more likely to remain active if it’s part of family routine.
- Positive role modelling: When kids see adults prioritising health, it sets a powerful example.
Mubadala Health offers guidance to parents on introducing children to new sports safely and monitoring their well-being as they grow more active.
Tips for Staying Safe While Active
No matter how enthusiastic you feel, it’s essential to approach summer sport sensibly. Here are a few tips endorsed by Mubadala Health professionals:
- Hydrate Often: Even indoors, high activity levels can lead to dehydration. Aim to drink water regularly before, during, and after exercise.
- Warm Up and Cool Down: Gentle stretching reduces the risk of injury.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Supportive shoes protect your joints.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel dizzy or unwell, stop and seek help.
Joining the Movement: How to Get Involved
If you’re new to Abu Dhabi Summer Sport, it’s easy to get started. The programme typically runs from June through August, with schedules published online and across social media. Many activities are free or low-cost, making them accessible to everyone.
To find out more:
- Visit the ADNEC website for event listings.
- Check Mubadala Health’s platforms for wellness workshops.
- Follow local sports clubs on Instagram or Facebook for announcements.
The Bigger Picture: Building a Healthier Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s investment in summer sport and wellness resources reflects a broader commitment to public health. By encouraging residents to move more and make informed lifestyle choices, the emirate is tackling some of the biggest health challenges of our time, including rising rates of obesity and diabetes.
Through partnerships between organisers and healthcare leaders such as Mubadala Health, Abu Dhabi is showing that even the hottest months can be a time of growth, connection, and transformation.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to wait for cooler weather to put your wellbeing first. From indoor fitness festivals to health education, Abu Dhabi Summer Sport and Mubadala Health offer all the tools you need to stay active, informed, and inspired.
This summer, consider stepping into one of the many cool, welcoming venues across the city. Whether you’re chasing your personal best or simply looking for a way to unwind, you’ll be joining a community committed to living well—no matter the season.
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