In a bold step that cements its commitment to youth welfare, Abu Dhabi has launched a pioneering child protection policy tailored specifically for the sports sector. The initiative, led by the Department of Community Development (DCD) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority and multiple stakeholders, aims to build a safer, more nurturing sports environment for children and youth in the emirate.
This forward-thinking policy is the first of its kind in the region. It outlines a comprehensive, multi-tiered approach that empowers children, educates adults, and holds institutions accountable, ensuring that sports—often a vital part of childhood development—remain a safe and inspiring space for every young participant.
Why Now? The Urgent Need for Protection in Sports
Across the globe, increasing awareness of child abuse in competitive and recreational sports has led to a demand for tighter safeguards. From emotional neglect to physical abuse and inappropriate conduct, children in sports have historically been exposed to various forms of harm, often underreported due to fear or lack of trusted avenues.
Abu Dhabi’s authorities are refusing to let those risks go unanswered. Recognising that children spend significant hours under the supervision of coaches, volunteers, and sports institutions, the government has taken decisive steps to institutionalise protection measures as a non-negotiable standard.
The goal is clear: no child should ever feel unsafe while pursuing their passion for sports.
Key Features of the Policy
Mandatory Safeguarding Standards
Every sports club, academy, training facility, and recreational organisation operating with child athletes must comply with the new regulations. These include rigorous background checks for all staff and volunteers, standardised codes of conduct to prevent abuse, bullying, or exploitation, and clear disciplinary actions for breaches of child protection protocols.
This approach aligns with broader national goals under the UAE Child Protection Law and complements other initiatives like the Dama Al Aman programme, designed to build a protective community framework around children.
Empowered Child Protection Officers
A standout feature of the policy is the establishment of trained Child Protection Officers (CPOs) within sports institutions. These officers will act as the first point of contact for children and families to report concerns, guide organisations through child-safe practices, and coordinate with authorities when intervention is required.
CPOs undergo a certification programme jointly developed with Georgetown University and judicial authorities, ensuring that their understanding of child rights, psychological safety, and reporting protocol meets international best practices.
Safe and Accessible Reporting Mechanisms
Children, parents, and sports staff now have access to secure, confidential reporting channels to raise concerns anonymously if needed. These mechanisms are designed to be child-friendly, culturally sensitive, and integrated across platforms including schools, sports centres, and healthcare providers.
Additionally, the system ensures timely escalation of cases to child welfare and law enforcement authorities when needed.
Cross-Sector Coordination
Perhaps the most effective aspect of the policy is its ecosystem-wide implementation. Abu Dhabi’s child protection framework brings together schools, sports organisations, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and judicial bodies to work in harmony. Each partner plays a clear, active role in spotting risks, managing cases, and supporting affected children.
This multi-agency coordination is what transforms a policy into a living, breathing safety net.
Humanising the Impact: Safer Fields, Stronger Dreams
To understand the significance of this initiative, one must think beyond legislation and into the hearts of the children it protects.
Take the story of Zayed, an 8-year-old football enthusiast who trains three times a week. Under the new policy, his club now requires all staff to complete safeguarding training. His parents are briefed annually on warning signs of abuse. The club has a clearly displayed helpline and a dedicated safeguarding officer who checks in with the kids regularly.
Zayed no longer trains in silence. If something feels off, he knows exactly who to speak to. That’s the power of trust—a powerful byproduct of structured protection.
For his mother, Fatima, the policy offers peace of mind. “As a parent, nothing is more important than knowing my child is respected and protected. Now I know that the people around him are not just skilled, but also trained to care,” she shares.
A Culture Shift, Not Just a Checklist
Unlike typical regulatory mandates, this policy does not aim for superficial compliance. It is designed to foster an internal culture shift within sports institutions—from a focus on results to a focus on responsibility.
The Sportsmanship Values campaign, also supported by the DCD, ties in seamlessly with this mission. By promoting ethical conduct, emotional intelligence, and mutual respect, it complements the protection policy and reinforces positive coaching behaviours across all levels.
Moreover, child protection training will soon become a prerequisite for coaching licenses in Abu Dhabi. This makes safeguarding knowledge as essential as tactical or fitness instruction for anyone guiding young athletes.
Backlink Integration and Supporting Structures
The new child protection policy in sports connects with several existing frameworks and programmes, including:
- Dama Al Aman (Peace Shield): A holistic initiative by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority, focusing on community-wide child protection
- Child Protection Specialist Training Programme: Developed with Georgetown University and the judiciary to professionalise child safety enforcement
- UAE Child Protection Law (Wadeema Law): A national legal framework ensuring children’s rights and safety across all sectors
- Sportsmanship Values Initiative: Promoting emotional and ethical development in sports
These connections allow seamless collaboration, data sharing, and mutual reinforcement of safety principles across every touchpoint in a child’s life.
Next Steps: Expanding the Safety Net
While the current rollout targets major clubs and institutions, the next phase will extend the policy’s reach to smaller academies, neighbourhood sports centres, and informal coaching groups. The government also plans to increase awareness campaigns for families, enhance digital reporting platforms, and monitor and evaluate impact through regular audits and child feedback.
The policy is not static; it’s designed to evolve based on ground realities, child experiences, and feedback loops from frontline workers.
Conclusion: A Model for the Region
Abu Dhabi’s child protection policy for the sports sector is a testament to its deep commitment to human dignity, youth development, and social wellbeing. At a time when the global sporting community is grappling with safeguarding failures, this initiative offers a bold, proactive alternative.
It doesn’t just prevent harm—it builds confidence. It doesn’t just react to problems—it creates a culture of care. And most importantly, it reminds us all that every child deserves to dream, play, and grow in an environment built on respect and protection.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read More: ADNOC Distribution’s ESG Report Unveils Bold Vision for Sustainable Innovation
