Abu dhabi: The third edition of the Fatima bint Mubarak Academy Women's Basketball Cup 2026 has commenced in Abu Dhabi, featuring teams from the UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt. The competition is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and under the directives of Sheikha Fatima bint Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The tournament runs from 27th to 31st August.
According to Emirates News Agency, this year's edition coincides with Emirati Women's Day and its theme, 'We Emerge Stronger and Better', emphasizing the progress of Emirati women and their participation in sports. The tournament provides female basketball players the opportunity to compete, gain experience, and develop skills against teams with varied play styles.
Seven teams are participating, including the Fatima bint Mubarak Academy Basketball Team from the UAE, Al Gharafa from Qatar, Salwa Al Sabah and Al-Oyoun Women's from Kuwait, Salalah from Oman, Al-Muqawileen Club from Jordan, and 6th of October from Egypt. The opening day saw three matches, with Kuwait's Al-Oyoun Women's defeating Jordan's Al-Muqawileen Club 70-34, Qatar's Al Gharafa beating Oman's Salalah 82-36, and Egypt's 6th of October Club overcoming Kuwait's Salwa Al Sabah 87-60.
Dr. Omnia Al Hajri, Vice Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy, highlighted the tournament's significance as it coincides with Emirati Women's Day. She acknowledged the support Emirati women receive and the role of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak in empowering women across various fields.
The tournament is part of the Academy's efforts to support women's sports by providing opportunities for competition, development, and experience exchange through regional tournaments.
