The rise of shooting sport in Dubai

As sports continues to play a defining role in the UAE’s national identity, shooting is entering a new chapter – blending heritage with innovation to grow the sport, attract new talent, and expand public participation.

Shooting sport, deeply rooted in Emirati culture, are evolving into a modern, year-round pursuit bolstered by major infrastructure investments.

Leading the charge is a new 15,000 sqm indoor shooting range at JA Sports & Shooting Club – set to be one of the regions most advanced when it opens in early 2026.

The facility forms the centrepiece of a broader multi-sport development aimed at serving elite athletes, seeking dynamic sporting experiences.

The initiative aligns closely with calls from the UAE’s leadership to uphold and expand the nation’s legacy of sporting excellence on the global stage.

By combining advanced infrastructure with inclusive, year-round access, venues like JA Sports & Shooting Club are positioned to play a pivotal role in delivering on that vision.

“We’re not just building a facility—we’re helping shape the future of competitive shooting in the UAE,” said Stuart Gibb, Group General Manager - Sports at JA Resorts & Hotels.

“From training future athletes to offering unforgettable experiences for guests, it’s about creating something that supports both high performance and broader public engagement.”

The shooting range will feature 25m and 50m pistol ranges, as well as a 200m multifunctional trap and rifle range. Its fully indoor, climate-controlled setup allows athletes and guests to train comfortably and consistently throughout the year – particularly valuable in preparation for high-level international events where precision and repetition are key.

Construction on the wider JA Sports & Shooting Club is already underway, with the multi-sport complex scheduled to open in phases from the end of summer 2025. In addition to the shooting facility, the development will include six elite football pitches as well as a international-standard cricket ovals with a dedicated training nets.

The result is a seamless, all-encompassing experience – where an aspiring athlete can start the day on the range, unwind on a pristine private beach, and recover in a state-of-the-art wellness facility, all within the same destination. “Sporting infrastructure doesn’t just serve current athletes; it inspires the next generation,” Gibb added.

“We’re creating a place where people can visualise themselves reaching the very top. That kind of belief is powerful – and it starts with access.”

The project also supports broader national strategies such as the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033, which places strong emphasis on public wellbeing through inclusive, active lifestyles.

As Dubai’s population and global appeal continue to rise, developments like this are designed to meet the needs of both residents and the growing number of international visitors seeking active, premium travel experiences.

While final opening dates and programme details will be announced in due course, the message is clear: the UAE is raising the bar for what sport and recreation can look like.

And with JA Sports & Shooting Club at the heart of this evolution, the future of shooting sports in the region looks more promising – and more exciting – than ever before.