In a landmark move blending diplomacy and culture, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to declare yoga a competitive sport, becoming the First Gulf nation to grant the ancient Indian discipline full sporting recognition, the Indian Express reported.
The initiative reflects the growing cultural synergy between India and the UAE, which is home to a vibrant four million-strong Indian community.
The announcement came during the second Joint Steering Committee Meeting of the India-UAE Cultural Council, held in Abu Dhabi on 8-9 October.
The Indian delegation, led by ICCR Director-General Nandini Singla, held talks with the UAE team headed by Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State in the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
According to officials, a national framework for yoga competitions is being developed by the UAE Yoga Committee under the Ministry of Sports.
The move follows the immense popularity of yoga in the country and aims to integrate it into formal sporting circuits.
Alongside this development, the UAE has also approved plans for an India House in Abu Dhabi, envisioned as a centre to promote art, culture, student exchanges, and shared heritage.
The cultural hub will also include a yoga training space. Ambassador Alshaali said, “The UAE believes that India House will create opportunities for artists and audiences to meet, share, and collaborate. India House is envisioned as a symbol of the creative spirit that unites our two nations.”
During her visit, Singla also met representatives from NYU Abu Dhabi and the Louvre Abu Dhabi to explore partnerships in arts and education.
The new cultural initiatives expand upon the 2022 MoU signed between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, reinforcing cultural collaboration beyond trade.
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