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RAK Properties, one of Ras Al Khaimah’s leading publicly listed developers, has taken a bold step forward in championing the growth of obstacle course racing (OCR) in the Middle East. In a strategic partnership with Arabian Warrior, a pioneering brand in the world of OCR, RAK Properties has positioned itself at the forefront of this rapidly growing sport. This collaboration comes at an opportune moment, with OCR set to feature in the 2028 Olympic Games and potentially becoming a standalone sport by 2032. This partnership aims not only to promote physical fitness but also to elevate Ras Al Khaimah as a prime destination for both sports tourism and community development.
RAK Properties: A Pioneer in Sports and Community Well-being
RAK Properties, renowned for its flagship developments like Mina Al Arab, is known for integrating community well-being and active lifestyles into its real estate offerings. The partnership with Arabian Warrior reflects the company’s continued commitment to fostering healthy, vibrant communities. With the announcement of RAK Properties as the new Title Partner for the Arabian Warrior Schools National Championship and the Official Partner for the Arabian Warrior Middle East event series, the emirate is poised to become a hub for the sport. This partnership will see the establishment of a semi-permanent OCR facility within Mina Al Arab, providing local schools, aspiring athletes, and the broader community with a world-class training environment.
The Growth of Obstacle Course Racing in the Region
Obstacle course racing, which tests an athlete’s endurance, strength, and agility, has rapidly gained popularity worldwide. The sport’s inclusion in the Modern Pentathlon at the upcoming LA28 Olympic Games is a significant milestone for OCR enthusiasts. As the sport garners global recognition, partnerships like the one between RAK Properties and Arabian Warrior will play a pivotal role in nurturing talent and promoting the sport at both grassroots and professional levels.
RAK Properties’ partnership with Arabian Warrior will see multiple OCR events hosted across the GCC, including in Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE, and beyond. The first-ever Arabian Warrior Schools National Championships will be held in Ras Al Khaimah, featuring a series of week-long events across several emirates. These events will focus on engaging schoolchildren in OCR, promoting physical fitness and mental well-being from a young age. The National Championship will serve as a platform to identify and nurture local talent, with a view to grooming athletes capable of competing on the global OCR stage.
RAK Properties’ Vision for Sports and Tourism in Ras Al Khaimah
RAK Properties’ CEO, Sameh Muhtadi, highlighted the significance of this partnership in shaping Ras Al Khaimah’s future as a leading destination for both sports and tourism. He stated: “Our partnership with Arabian Warrior marks an exciting chapter in our commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle in Ras Al Khaimah. With a new season attracting international athletes and a grassroots schools series, this collaboration fosters community well-being, promotes physical fitness, empowers locals through sports, and positions RAK as a leading sports and tourism destination.”
Ras Al Khaimah is already known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The emirate has seen a surge in popularity among tourists seeking adventure, making it a prime location for outdoor sports and events like OCR. The semi-permanent facility at Mina Al Arab will further bolster RAK’s reputation as a top destination for sports enthusiasts, offering state-of-the-art training and hosting international competitions.
Arabian Warrior: A Force for Good in the Middle East
Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hamad Bin Saif Al Sharqi, the spokesperson for Arabian Warrior, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with RAK Properties. He commented, “We are hugely excited about the inaugural Arabian Warrior series, with several fantastic OCR events scheduled to take place across the GCC, including in Ras Al Khaimah next April. This partnership with RAK Properties will play an integral role in the evolution of the brand long-term, while also allowing Arabian Warrior to promote a healthy lifestyle and tap into a wide audience both in Ras Al Khaimah and across the GCC.”
Arabian Warrior is set to bring together some of the world’s top OCR athletes, using the Middle East as a key training base ahead of the LA28 Games. With its focus on sustainability initiatives and world-class service standards, Arabian Warrior aims to build a legacy that not only supports athletes but also benefits the local communities it engages with.
A Focus on Sustainability and Regional Development
Both RAK Properties and Arabian Warrior are committed to integrating sustainability initiatives into their operations. The new OCR facility at Mina Al Arab will serve as a model of sustainable development, incorporating environmentally friendly practices into its design and operation. This aligns with broader efforts in the GCC region to promote sustainable urban development and reduce environmental impact.
The partnership will also support the region’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil, with a focus on promoting sports tourism and healthy lifestyles. As OCR continues to grow in popularity, Ras Al Khaimah stands to benefit economically from the influx of international athletes, tourists, and media attention.
A Bright Future for Obstacle Course Racing
With OCR now recognized as part of the Modern Pentathlon at the Olympic Games, there is no doubt that the sport is set to become a global phenomenon. The partnership between RAK Properties and Arabian Warrior positions Ras Al Khaimah as a key player in the sport’s development in the Middle East. From hosting regional championships to nurturing future Olympians, this collaboration represents a major leap forward for the sport and the community alike.
The success of this initiative will be measured not only by the number of events hosted or athletes trained but by the lasting impact it has on the well-being of the local population. By promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, and environmental sustainability, RAK Properties and Arabian Warrior are setting the stage for a healthier, more active future for Ras Al Khaimah and the entire GCC region.
Conclusion
RAK Properties’ partnership with Arabian Warrior marks a significant milestone in the development of obstacle course racing in the Middle East. This collaboration brings together world-class athletes, cutting-edge facilities, and a shared commitment to community well-being and sustainability. With OCR poised to become a permanent fixture in the Olympic Games, Ras Al Khaimah is well-positioned to play a leading role in the sport’s global growth.
