Dubai is preparing to host the largest edition in history of the Dubai International Aquatics Championship (DIAC), with the 2026 event scheduled to take place from 27 March to 6 April at the iconic Hamdan Sports Complex.
Announced by the UAE Aquatics Federation, DIAC 2026 is expected to attract more than 2,000 athletes representing over 40 countries — a record turnout that signals the championship’s rapid growth in scale, prestige, and global appeal. The milestone edition further underscores Dubai’s expanding presence on the international sporting calendar and its strategic positioning as a global hub for elite competition.
International Recognition and Olympic Pathway
The championship holds official recognition from World Aquatics, ensuring that all results achieved during the competition are internationally accredited. Beyond rankings and medals, DIAC 2026 carries added competitive significance: it will serve as one of the official ranking pathways toward the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
For emerging athletes and participating federations, this elevates the event from a prestigious meet to a strategic stepping stone on the road to Olympic qualification.
Organisational Excellence and Expanded Programme
Organised in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the championship will be technically and operationally delivered in partnership with Apex Sports Academy, the event’s official technical and organisational partner.
The competition programme will feature a comprehensive range of individual events across multiple age categories. All races and technical procedures will adhere strictly to international standards, reflecting the UAE’s ongoing commitment to delivering world-class sporting events with precision and professionalism.
Introduction of the DIAC Record Programme
In a first for the championship, the Organising Committee has introduced an official DIAC Record Programme. Championship records will now be formally recognised in selected 50m and 100m events across the four strokes.
Athletes who break these records will receive financial rewards alongside official record certificates, providing additional incentive for peak performance and raising the competitive stakes. The initiative is expected to inspire record-breaking swims and attract top-tier emerging talent from across the Arab region, Asia, and Europe.
Showcasing Infrastructure and Vision
For the UAE, DIAC 2026 represents more than an athletic competition. It is a platform to showcase the country’s world-class infrastructure, operational expertise, and long-term vision for sports development on a global stage.
Abdullah Al-Wuhaibi, Chairman of the UAE Aquatics Federation Steering Committee, emphasized the broader ambition behind the event.
“DIAC is not just a competition — it is a global platform for developing champions and showcasing talent. We expect the upcoming edition to witness strong performances and outstanding record-breaking swims,” he stated.
With record participation, enhanced competitive pathways, and expanded performance incentives, DIAC 2026 is poised to be a landmark moment in the championship’s history — reinforcing Dubai’s standing as a premier destination for international aquatics excellence.
