Zayed torch relay to unite over 1,000 students today

DUBAI — Over 1,000 school students from more than 80 private schools in Dubai will unite to celebrate the UAE Sports Day on March 7 and honour the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as part of a major sporting event on Wednesday.

The 15-kilometre torch relay will start at Etihad Museum and teams will exchange the torch at various stations on Jumeirah Beach Road. The relay will culminate in a flame lighting ceremony to remember the founder of the nation.

Dr Abdulla Al Karam, chairman of the board of directors and director-general of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), said: “This year’s UAE Sports Day is an exceptional event as it coincides with the Year of Zayed. We encourage the school community to come together and celebrate this day as we look back at the positive values left behind by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”

The event is being organised by the authority in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) as part of the UAE National Sports Day.

This year’s UAE Sports Day is an exceptional event. We encourage the school community to come together and celebrate this day as we look back at the positive values left behind by the late Sheikh Zayed.” Dr Abdulla Al Karam, director-general, KHDA

Dr Abdulla added: “People from all walks of life will participate in the relay race and reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to happiness and tolerance.”

Saeed Hareb, secretary-general of the Dubai Sports Council, said: “Our students represent our future. The UAE National Sports Day is a celebration of our efforts to unite people and this year we also celebrate the Year of Zayed — which makes the event even more special. The torch relay will bring together students and youth to participate in activities that embody the spirit of unity and tolerance.” The torch relay will be flagged off from Etihad Museum at 8.30am today.