AI is revolutionising the UAE’s sports industry, enhancing performance, analytics, and fan experiences while shaping global sports innovation.
ABU DHABI: Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a driving force in the transformation of sports in the UAE and globally. From enhancing athlete performance to optimising event management and fan engagement, AI is reshaping the sports landscape at every level.
In the UAE, the Ministry of Sports has launched Sportifai, a pioneering digital ecosystem offering AI-powered tools to federations, clubs and athletes. This initiative aligns with the nation’s digital transformation strategy and underlines its ambition to become a regional hub for sports innovation. AI is now a crucial component in decision-making, training, forecasting and strategic planning across the UAE’s athletic ecosystem.
UAE Team ADQ, a trailblazer in women’s professional cycling, has entered a partnership with Analog to deploy adaptive intelligence and mixed reality tools, enhancing team management and performance analysis. Meanwhile, G42, a UAE-based tech firm, is bringing AI solutions to Formula 1 by working with global teams to use real-time data analytics for performance gains.
Globally, the sports AI market is forecasted to grow from US$2.4 billion in 2024 to more than US$3 billion in 2025, and could exceed US$30 billion by 2033, marking an annual growth rate above 30%. Key growth areas include injury prediction, tactical analysis, real-time fan engagement, and smart tournament operations.
The International Paralympic Committee (IPC), in collaboration with UAE entities, is also exploring AI’s potential in para-sports. AI tools are being integrated into medical classification systems to ensure fair competition and refine equipment standards. Majid Al Usaimi, President of the Asian Paralympic Committee, confirmed that AI will play a key role in para-sports development moving forward.
Experts highlight that the UAE’s digital infrastructure and proactive government strategies position the country as a model for intelligent sports systems. From coaching and refereeing to talent scouting and health monitoring, AI is set to redefine the way sports are played, watched and managed across the Emirates and beyond.
