Dubai Games 2026 has revolutionized athletic medical support by implementing hospital-level care directly on the competition grounds, creating an unprecedented safety net for participants and spectators alike. In a groundbreaking collaboration between Dubai Health and Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, the event features a fully-equipped medical facility that transcends traditional first aid capabilities.
The medical unit operates with comprehensive diagnostic technologies including mobile X-ray equipment and blood testing laboratories, complemented by a dedicated plaster room staffed with technicians specializing in fracture management and trauma cases. The multidisciplinary team comprises doctors, nurses, administrative personnel, and IT support staff working in seamless coordination, with emergency medications and equipment immediately available.
Dr. Ahd Shahin, Director of Events and Community Services at Dubai Health, emphasized the organization’s commitment: ‘Our presence ensures immediate care when needed, significantly reducing the necessity for hospital transfers. We maintain comprehensive clinical capabilities and expertise on-site to support both athletes and spectators.’
The integration with Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services provides critical backup, with ambulance teams stationed throughout the venue to facilitate immediate transfers for cases requiring advanced hospital intervention. This dual-layer medical approach ensures continuous coverage from initial assessment to specialized hospital care when necessary.
The human impact of this medical infrastructure was demonstrated when an injured athlete, after being diagnosed with a fracture, requested to remain and support his team before hospital transfer. Medical staff accommodated his wish, providing wheelchair assistance and monitoring his condition while he cheered his teammates—a testament to the flexible, athlete-centered approach of the medical team.
Since the inception of Dubai Games, medical capabilities have expanded annually to meet evolving championship demands. This hospital-level on-site care represents a significant advancement in sports medicine support, allowing athletes to compete with confidence knowing comprehensive medical attention is immediately accessible.