Dubai Police has unveiled an innovative public engagement initiative offering substantial cash prizes for creative video submissions during the upcoming UAE SWAT Challenge. The force will award up to Dh30,000 ($10,000) for the best resident-produced footage of the international tactical competition.
The seventh edition of the premier tactical event, scheduled from February 7-11 at Al Ruwayyah, will feature the newly established SWAT Clip Award, specifically designed to encourage community participation. UAE residents, particularly students, are invited to document the proceedings through creative videography, with the top submission receiving approximately Dh36,700. Additional prizes for second and third place winners will be disclosed in the coming weeks.
Brigadier General Obaid bin Yarouf of Dubai Police emphasized that the decision stems from overwhelming public turnout during previous editions. ‘The remarkable resident attendance at earlier challenges inspired us to expand participation through creative and artistic avenues,’ he stated.
The 2026 championship boasts a substantial total prize pool of $260,000 (nearly Dh1 million), with the winning tactical team securing $80,000. Registration figures indicate robust international interest, with 114 teams from 48 nations already confirmed—surpassing last year’s Guinness World Record achievement for largest specialized SWAT championship involving 46 countries.
This year’s competition introduces five distinct challenges, including an optional cycling event scheduled one day prior to the main competition. Officials confirmed that several international teams have arrived in Dubai more than a month early for intensive preparation.
Submission guidelines, eligibility criteria, and entry requirements will be announced imminently as Dubai Police continues to strengthen community connections through innovative public engagement strategies.