‘Great news for talented children’

■ Faraz Sethi, 32, physiotherapy specialist, UK

“This is very good news that will provide great diversity

[to the UAE’s sporting arena]. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids from all walks of life to excel. I would definitely enrol my children in UAE sports teams as long as the coaching is of a suitable standard. My fouryear-old is passionate about football and I would support my toddler daughter too if she wants to pursue a sport-based career. At the moment though, they are still very young and I encourage sports simply for enjoyment and the development of gross motor skills.”

■ K.R. Prakash, former assistant sport secretary with the Indian Social & Cultural Centre

“For expats in individual sports, this move is a welcome one. There are a lot of talented players out there — for example, in badminton — but many parents cannot afford to provide them with best facilities. Once a talent is identified, called for trials and considered for clubs or for the national team, it will be huge for them. They can certainly make the most of the world class facilities and support they will get here to horn their skills. And certainly many would like to represent the UAE where they are born and brought up.

■ Seth Amoafo, 37, founder of football school Pass Abu Dhabi and father of two from Ghana

“This is a brilliant decision that will allow children in the

UAE to own their sporting success. Instead of being held back by a glass ceiling that stops them from progressing, they can strive for excellence, and expat families can settle here knowing their children can thrive.

It will also build loyalty to the UAE, in my opinion, and allow expat athletes to build strong bonds with their Emirati peers. My six-year-old son enjoys football, and I encourage him to play.”

■ Juliana Khalil, mind mapping instructor and trainer, Lebanon

“This will definitely encourage them to take the game seriously,” said Khalil, who has been living in Dubai for 12 years. She added that many parents want their children to take up physical activities for better health. The opportunity to represent the UAE in international sporting events will definitely be a big boost to expatriate children, she said.