The Saudi Arabia Canoe and Kayak Federation (SCKF) and Emirates Canoe and Rafting Federation (ECRF) are working together to strengthen the growth of paddle sport in the Middle East.
A partnership has been struck between the two National Federations with the aim of building a “paddle sport ecosystem” across the region.
The UAE made history last week by becoming the first Middle East nation to stage a flagship International Canoe Federation event.
Abu Dhabi was the host of the 2025 ICF Stand Up Paddling World Championships, with competition running from October 29 to November 2.
Paddlers Hub UAE helped organise the event in Abu Dhabi and is a strategic partner for the National Federations of UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Yaser Alkatheeri, Chairman of the ECRF, said: “Our partnership with Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone for regional growth.
“By joining forces, we’re building a unified and collaborative paddle sport ecosystem across the Gulf.
“Shared initiatives, joint events, and knowledge exchange are helping us reach new audiences and create lasting impact.
“Together, we’re shaping a vibrant future for paddle sport in the Middle East."
Mamdouh Albarraq, General Secretary of the SCKF, said: “Our partnership with the UAE is extremely important and strategic for the development of paddle sports in the region.
“The UAE has been a pioneer in organising international-level events and has shown strong leadership in promoting the sport.
“By working together, Saudi Arabia and the UAE can share knowledge, resources, and expertise – creating a powerful regional base for canoe and paddle sport that supports athletes, coaches, and federations across the GCC and Asia.”
Mr Albarraq underlined the work going on at the federation to develop the sport in Saudi Arabia.
“With no doubt, the efforts of the Board of Directors, represented by its Chairman, Mr. Abdulaziz Suwaiket, played an active role in the establishment of the Federation,” he added.
“The Federation has already undertaken several positive steps, and in the future, we plan to make the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia one of the key players in the international canoe and paddle sport industry.
“Saudi Arabia will also host major international events such as the 2034 Asian Games and a World Cup, which will require the Federation to work closely with global partners and play a major role in developing the sport at every level - locally, regionally, and internationally.”
More than 460 athletes from 54 nations participated at the ICF SUP World Championships.
Puerto Rico’s Mariecarmen Rivera was the star of the show, winning three gold medals across the sprint, technical and long distance categories.
Spain picked up two titles with Sergio Cantoral sealing the sprint crown and Aaron Sanchez Quetglas bagging gold in the technical, while Japan’s Shuri Araki was triumphant in the long distance for the second successive year.
“We are extremely proud to host the 2025 ICF SUP World Championships in the UAE,” said Mr Alkatheeri.
“This milestone reflects our nation’s commitment to embracing emerging sports and positioning the Middle East as a global hub for elite competition.
“For the UAE and the region, it’s not just a sporting event - it’s a symbol of ambition, inclusivity, and progress, showcasing our natural landscapes and hospitality to the world.
Mr Alkatheeri said hosting the World Championships was a “turning point” for the development of SUP in the UAE.
“It elevated public awareness, inspired youth participation, and accelerated the growth of infrastructure and training programmes,” Mr Alkatheeri added.
“The event laid the foundation for a sustainable SUP ecosystem, encouraging clubs, schools, and communities to engage with the sport more actively.”
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