General Authority of Sports unveils 24 digital trial services to enhance the national sports work system in the UAE

22 January 2024- The General Authority of Sports (GAS) launched a trial of its digital services for sports federations, which provides 24 digital services. The initiative, which comes in line with the ‘Digital Transformation’ project, a key project of the National Sports Strategy 2031, seeks to support the automation of government services in the UAE and improve the development of the national sports system. By streamlining administrative processes, the Authority seeks to facilitate procedures for athletes and national teams, allowing them to excel in various sports events and enhance the reputation of the UAE in various international sports arenas.

The initiative seeks to simplify and streamline access to financial and administrative services as well as sports leave permits, offered by sports federations in the UAE. Furthermore, it seeks to elevate the level of support available to all individuals involved in the sports sector across the UAE. The initiative targets a wide range of stakeholders, including players, administrators, referees, delegation leaders, coaches, therapists, observers, technical advisors, companions for young athletes, people of determination, and sports experts from various sports federations, committees, organisations, associations, and more.

H.E Saeed Abdul Ghaffar Hussein, Director General of GAS, said: “The pilot launch of electronic services for sports federations is an important stage in the digital transformation project, which is one of the key projects of the second phase of the National Sports Strategy 2031. Intending to automate services and improve the overall sporting experience, this step represents a significant advancement in the system of sports work in the UAE. Additionally, it aligns with the strategic enabler of developing the country’s sports infrastructure and regulatory environment, in line with the visions and directions of the wise leadership and government agenda.”

“This transformation reflects the commitment of GAS to lead the digital revolution in Emirati sports and ensure easy access to services for all stakeholders. It increases productivity and saves time and effort by optimising procedures. This strengthens the Authority’s standing as a pioneer in employing cutting-edge technology to provide services that assist national sports organisations and enhance the sports industry,” he added.

Recently, the Authority organised a training workshop for sports federations, which highlights how the electronic services offered through the sports portal of GAS can be used. During the workshop, they offered comprehensive overview of the three steps required to access each service as well as addressed all inquiries from the federations.

The list of new and approved electronic services involves a wide range of options for sports organisations. The services cover various aspects including: sports leave permits, access permits to sports federations, attendance at general assembly meetings, membership or partnership contracts, nomination for external positions and approval to host sports events. Furthermore, organisations can request: approval for external participation, transportation allowances, employee appointments and facility reservations. In addition, services include: receiving delegations from sports, attending sporting events and obtaining permission to propose board candidates. In addition, organisations that want to host sporting events, outside events, or engage in outside activities can apply for funding. This funding can be used to pay for camp setup, outside subscriptions, sporting goods purchases, venue rentals, travel reimbursements, establishment costs, work contract accreditation and media publication clearance.

The National Sports Strategy 2031 was introduced in June 2023 with 17 key projects stipulated in it, consisting of 14 strategic projects and 3 transformative initiatives. These projects will be implemented in three phases, which will progressively take place until 2031. The General Authority of Sports strives to implement these programs in conjunction with its sports partners. The ‘Digital Transformation’ project is one of the focal points of the second phase of National Sports Strategy 2031. The objective is to transform the sports industry by incorporating digital technologies and innovation.