If grit had a postcode, it would probably read RAK CITY. Ras Al Khaimah is officially stepping onto one of the world’s toughest sporting stages, and doing it in style—with an all-women team competing in the Cities Category at the Dubai Games, taking place in Dubai from 12–15 February 2026.
This isn’t just another sports headline. This is history-in-the-making. Out of 56 cities from around the world, Ras Al Khaimah is making its first-ever appearance in the Cities Category—and even better, it’s one of only three all-women teams globally, alongside the Netherlands and Poland. Not bad for a debut, right?
Details
When: 12–15 February 2026
Where: Dubai
So, What Exactly Are the Dubai Games?
Think obstacle courses. Now add strategy, teamwork, pressure, problem-solving, and a whole lot of mental toughness. Formerly known as Gov Games, the Dubai Games have evolved into a global, high-intensity, team-based competition held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The event brings together teams across five categories:
- Government (Men & Women)
- Community
- Cities
- Juniors
It’s not just about who’s fastest or strongest. It’s about who can think clearly when everything hurts and still move forward as one team. The motto says it all: One Team. One Spirit.
This year’s scale? Massive.
- 99 government teams
- 56 cities
- 28 community teams
- 56 junior teams
All competing over four adrenaline-packed days at Dubai Festival City.
From “Nice to Meet You” to “Let’s Do This”
Here’s the plot twist everyone loves: almost none of the RAK CITY athletes knew each other before forming the team. Different sports backgrounds, different routines, different strengths—one shared goal.
Participation in the Cities Category doesn’t come through trials or qualifiers. Instead, teams must receive official approval from their city’s authorities. RAK CITY confirmed its participation in early January, giving the team just one month to prepare—while most teams train for 3 to 6 months.
Pressure? Yes. Panic? Not really.
Training: Sweat, Stairs, and Serious Team Bonding
Training was anything but boring. Sessions took place across Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Sharjah, with a mix of environments designed to challenge both body and brain.
The team trained at:
- Asylum Fitness (RAK) for strength and conditioning
- Flamingo Beach, running sand dunes, and training in water
- Multiple gyms across Dubai and Sharjah
- Julphar Towers, once a week, to prepare for what might be the most intimidating bonus challenge yet
On 11 February, Cities teams will take on a bonus event: climbing the stairs of Burj Khalifa—160 floors—as a team. No big deal. (Okay, huge deal.)
To prepare, the team repeatedly climbed 42 floors at Julphar Towers, 3–5 times per session, wearing weighted vests and tied together in a single line. Every step required coordination, pacing, communication, and trust.
“It quickly became more mental than physical,” shared the team. “You can’t rush. You have to move together. If one slows, everyone adjusts.”
Support & Acknowledgements
Backing this journey from day one, RAK Ports shared its pride in supporting the team, stating:
“RAK Ports is delighted to announce our sponsorship of the RAK CITY team, representing Ras Al Khaimah at the Dubai Games 2026, one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.”
The team also extends heartfelt thanks to RAKEZ, Asylum Fitness, and Mellows Wholesome Eatery, who have been fuelling each athlete with two complimentary meals per day for a full month leading up to the competition. Special appreciation goes to RAK Properties for granting access to Julphar Towers for weekly staircase training sessions—an essential part of preparing for the Burj Khalifa climb.
What the Team Says
Team manager Shaika Al Shamsi said, “This team came together in a very short time, but the commitment was instant. Every session focused on trust, communication, and learning how to function under pressure. Representing Ras Al Khaimah at this level is something we’re incredibly proud of.”
Team Captain Hessa Al Ali said, “We’re not just training to compete—we’re training to support each other. Every member brings a different strength, and that diversity is our biggest advantage. Wearing RAK CITY on our backs means everything to us.”
More Than a Team, It’s a Statement
RAK CITY isn’t representing a club or an institution—it’s representing the sports and team spirit of Ras Al Khaimah. It’s about visibility, confidence, and showing what’s possible when women come together with purpose.
In just a few weeks, strangers became teammates. Teammates became friends. And now, they’re heading to one of the toughest competitions in the world—together.
What’s Next?
The focus leading into February is clear: sharpen teamwork, refine strategy, and stay mentally agile. With 16 structured team sessions completed (plus individual training on top), the groundwork is laid.
Dubai Games demand strength, yes—but also problem-solving, coordination, communication, and calm under pressure. That’s exactly where RAK CITY is leaning in.
Final Word
RAK CITY is heading to Dubai Games 2026 with determination, humility, and a whole lot of heart. This isn’t just about competing—it’s about growth, sportsmanship, and showing what Ras Al Khaimah can do on a global stage.
One team. One spirit. And one unforgettable debut.
