The Dubai Sports Council has unveiled the 2025–2026 edition of its long-standing GARS programme under Social Agenda 33, opening a new chapter in efforts to raise ethically minded, resilient young athletes. The season is designed to cultivate positive behaviour, life skills and social awareness while protecting youth from risks and encouraging their role within families and neighbourhoods.
The Council is rolling out this season in collaboration with key government partners, including Dubai Police, the Community Development Authority, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, the Dubai Endowment Authority, the Dubai Health Authority, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Emirates Driving Institute. Representatives from prominent sports clubs such as Shabab Al Ahli, Al Wasl, Al Nasr, Hatta and the Dubai Club for People of Determination joined the coordination meeting to align efforts.
Since it began in 2013, GARS has reached more than 45,000 participants across Dubai’s clubs and schools, delivered upwards of 1,350 lectures and engaged over 30 government and federal partners. The programme has grown into a cornerstone of Dubai’s social development work, promoting education, health and ethical conduct alongside sporting achievement.
The new season emphasises four pillars: ethical and behavioural values, life-skills development, health and safety awareness, and deeper community involvement. Through hands-on workshops, field events and practical training, the initiative aims to shape athletes who succeed on the field and lead by example off it.
Planned activities include Dubai Police’s "Conscious Athlete" series covering traffic safety, stadium behaviour and cybercrime prevention. The Dubai Endowment Authority will spearhead campaigns on charity and service, while the RTA and the Emirates Driving Institute will offer virtual workshops on driving and e-scooter safety. The Islamic Affairs Department will run the "Nibras" awareness drive, and the Community Development Authority will launch the "Child-Friendly Clubs" project to strengthen child protection in sports settings.
GARS remains open to additional government and sporting institutions, expanding its reach through new awareness initiatives, anti-doping efforts and sessions on fair play and discipline. By embedding ethical values and a culture of safety, the Dubai Sports Council aims to shape a healthier, more responsible sporting community that reflects Dubai’s broader social vision.
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