Mohammed Suhail Al Niyadi Elected to FITASC Board, Boosting UAE Presence in International Shooting
Mohammed Suhail Al Niyadi elected to FITASC board (2026–2030) in Lisbon, strengthening the UAE’s influence in international shooting and pledging growth.
Mohammed Suhail Al Niyadi, president of the UAE Shooting Federation, has won a seat on the board of the International Federation for Sporting Shooting with Hounds (FITASC) for the 2026–2030 term at the organisation’s General Assembly in Lisbon. The election marks a notable achievement for Emirati sport governance and signals increased representation for the UAE in global shooting administration. Officials say the result reflects confidence in national expertise and opens new avenues for cooperation with international federations.
Election Declared at FITASC General Assembly in Lisbon
The FITASC General Assembly, convened in Lisbon, confirmed Al Niyadi’s membership on the federation’s executive board following the voting process among member federations. Delegates emphasised the importance of diverse leadership and technical knowledge as FITASC charts its calendar and regulatory framework for the coming cycle. Al Niyadi’s election places a UAE representative directly in policy discussions that shape the sport of clay target and hunting-style shooting worldwide.
UAE’s Growing Role in Global Shooting Governance
Observers noted that the UAE has steadily increased its footprint within international sporting bodies, and Al Niyadi’s appointment is the latest example of that trend. The presence of a UAE official on the FITASC board is expected to enhance the country’s voice when it comes to event selection, rule harmonisation, and development programmes. Sporting authorities in the Emirates view the role as a strategic platform to showcase national expertise in sport management and technical officiating.
Al Niyadi Signals Focus on Development and Cooperation
Mohammed Suhail Al Niyadi described the board seat as both an honour and a responsibility, committing to work with colleagues to expand outreach and raise competitive standards. He highlighted plans to promote collaboration among national federations and to support initiatives that grow participation at grassroots and elite levels. Al Niyadi also acknowledged the backing of UAE leadership and domestic sports bodies, saying that institutional support will be central to delivering tangible results.
Planned Priorities for the FITASC 2026–2030 Term
Sources close to the UAE Shooting Federation say Al Niyadi intends to prioritise programmes that strengthen technical capacity, coaching education, and event organisation across regions. The proposed agenda includes standardising training curricula, improving officiating quality, and creating exchange opportunities for athletes and coaches. Board members are expected to review proposals that broaden access to FITASC competitions and foster sustainable pathways for talent development.
Potential Benefits for Emirati Athletes and Events
Officials and coaches in the UAE see the board appointment as likely to accelerate opportunities for Emirati shooters to access high-level competitions and technical workshops. Enhanced ties with FITASC could lead to increased invitations to international events, hosting rights for regional tournaments, and partnerships for facility upgrades. Stakeholders also believe the appointment will boost the visibility of shooting disciplines in the Emirates and encourage private-sector investment in athlete programmes.
Regional Collaboration and Long-Term Impact
Beyond immediate benefits, the UAE’s representation on FITASC is expected to strengthen regional cooperation across the Gulf and wider Arab sporting community. Al Niyadi’s role on the board can serve as a conduit for knowledge transfer between continental confederations and FITASC, advancing tournament standards and governance practices. Over the long term, such engagement may help align competition calendars and development priorities across multiple levels of the sport.
Mohammed Suhail Al Niyadi’s election to the FITASC board underscores the UAE’s continuing ambition to shape international sports governance while delivering practical advantages to national athletes and administrators. The new board term from 2026 to 2030 will test how effectively member representatives translate policy influence into programmes that expand participation, raise technical standards, and secure the sport’s sustainable growth.