Dubai: Eight teams have been confirmed for the 35th Dubai International Basketball Championship, scheduled from 23rd January to 1st February at Rashid bin Hamdan Hall, Al Nasr Club. The Higher Organising Committee, chaired by Abdulatif Nasser Al Fardan, announced the preliminary list during a meeting at the National Olympic Committee headquarters.
According to Emirates News Agency, the current list of participating teams includes the UAE National Team, Al Nasr Club, Beirut of Lebanon, Al Karamah and Al Fidaa of Syria, Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya, Zamboanga of the Philippines, and Club Africain of Tunisia. The committee has left the door open for 48 hours to accommodate additional teams expressing interest but yet to confirm participation.
Al Fardan emphasized the significance of the UAE National Team's involvement as part of their preparation for the Gulf Games in Qatar in May. He highlighted the championship's role in enhancing its technical and organisational stature over its 35 editions, solidifying Dubai's position as a prominent sports destination.
The committee also acknowledged Major General (Ret.) Ismail Al Gergawi's contributions to the championship, granting him honorary presidency. Al Fardan expressed gratitude for the support from the Ministry of Sports, the National Olympic Committee, and the Dubai Sports Council, attributing the championship's success to their backing.
Additionally, the Higher Organising Committee appointed key figures to various roles for the tournament. Abdullah Hassan Mahyoob was named Vice Chairman and Head of Referees and Statistics, with others appointed to positions overseeing tournament direction, media, technical aspects, public relations, events, and protocol.
The committee reviewed preparations for Rashid bin Hamdan Hall and related organisational arrangements to ensure optimal conditions for the championship's success.