UAE To Launch National Games Based on Its Culture

A special spectrum of national games based on UAE culture, heritage and history will kick off next year to attract thousands of talented citizens and residents from across the country.

The announcement came during the first press conference of the UAE National Games, which was held on Tuesday in the capital under the patronage of Shaikh Mohammad Bin Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan.

"Around 50 games divided into four categories - special needs, team-based games, art exhibits, competition and project marathons - will be designed to focus on personal and professional development for Emiratis as well as expatriates," Mona Al Junaibi, CEO and programme manager of the UAE national games, told Gulf News.

"We do not target any age group. It is open for everyone. We want to change the traditional methods of teaching and use modern technologies and interactive games. Students show more interest in interesting practical practices rather than theoretical models," she added.

Under the logo "One Union, One Team Spirit", the event will take place at the Yas Marina race circuit in the capital.

"In this unique opportunity of unsurpassed personal and professional growth, I invite you to try out your wit and guts. Explore your inner potential and let it out in various games hosted at the event. Revive your faith in yourself by participating in these learning goal-based games to prove your worth to your nation," she added.

The conference also witnessed the participation from a 10-year-old girl gifted in mathematics.

Mariam Abdul Hadi Qaisiah, a Jordanian, was able to solve ten maths problems just using her fingers in one minute and 54 seconds.

"Mariam has completed six levels in the mental arithmetic programme at the Genius Kids educational centre. Each level can take around three months," Rawan Al Mayadmeh, programme coordinator manager at Genius Kids, told Gulf News.

Mental arithmetic is a form of training that enhances the child’s ability to do calculations without the aid of any tools. After completing such programmes, the child will be able to calculate rapidly and accurately by using mental abilities.

"Around 95 per cent of our children use the left side of the mind and fail to use the right side, which is the source of intelligence. The goal of our programme is to engage students in interactive discussions and conversations so they can identify their strengths," she said.

Ahmad Mubarak, 29, a physics teacher, was also another talent. He demonstrated his charcoal drawing abilities during the event in a very limited time.

The national games committee will start organising trips to schools, universities and companies to introduce its programmes throughout workshops.

Prizes will be awarded to winners who show extraordinary talents in different fields.

The event will also feature videos on camel races and pearl diving.