Students from Emirates Diplomatic Academy to volunteer at Special Olympics IX MENA Games Abu Dhabi

Celebrating athletes of determination, from 14 to 22 March 

15, March 2018 – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates:  Twenty-three students from the Emirates Diplomatic Academy (EDA), the UAE's leading international relations and diplomatic institution, will volunteer at the Special Olympics IX MENA Games Abu Dhabi.

The upcoming event, set to take place from 14 to 22 March 2018, marks the debut edition of the Special Olympics in the Middle East. 

His Excellency Mohamad Abdulla Al Junaibi, Chairman of the Higher Committee for Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, said: “We are grateful to the students of Emirates Diplomatic Academy for their support for the Special Olympics.

Special Olympics volunteers will play a major role in the success of one of the world's biggest and most inspiring events and will help to transform the lives of thousands of individuals and families through launching a new era of inclusion, hope and understanding.”

His Excellency Bernardino León, Director General of EDA, said: “EDA is proud to support this meaningful and high-impact event that celebrates the talents of athletes in addition to showcasing the UAE on a global platform.

In order to prepare for their roles and deliver the best experience to visitors, our students have participated in a protocol lecture and site visits.”

He added: “As part of the Delegation Services team, EDA students will serve as the main points of contact for the official delegation of one of the participating countries throughout the event.

This partnership will allow our future diplomats to demonstrate first-hand their skills in building bridges of friendship and inclusion with people from the region as well as to showcase the UAE's ongoing efforts in connecting with the world through shared values and a determination to succeed.” 

The Special Olympics IX MENA Games will host over 1,000 athletes from 31 nations competing across 16 different sports, as well as 450 coaches and 100 guests of honour. EDA students will join over 3,000 volunteers who are supporting the event in various capacities.