UAE’s medal rush continues as tally rises to 20 at 4th GCC Games in Doha

The UAE boosted its medal tally at the 4th GCC Games in Doha 2026, held from May 11 to 22, by claiming nine additional medals, bringing its overall count to 20 by the end of the third day of competition.

The haul includes three gold, four silver, and 13 bronze medals.

The nine new medals were won across a range of disciplines, including athletics, boxing, fencing, and billiards.

The UAE national boxing team made a particularly strong showing, contributing four of these medals to the overall tally, underscoring the country’s growing strength and depth in the sport.

Khalid Alkurdi won silver in the men’s 80kg category, while Mohammed Al Junaibi took bronze in the men’s 60kg category, Abdullah Al Shahi claimed bronze in the men’s 76kg category, and Sultan Qasim added bronze in the men’s 55kg category.

These results highlight the ongoing development of UAE boxing, showcasing not only the athletes’ skill and determination but also the nation’s solid and growing presence in Gulf-level competitions. The performance underscores the UAE’s commitment to nurturing talent and strengthening its position as a competitive force in the regional sporting arena.

The UAE athletics team also continued their impressive form with new record-breaking achievements.

Fatima Alhosani won gold in the women’s discus throw with a mark of 48.37 metres, setting a new UAE women’s record, while Salma Almarri claimed bronze with a throw of 44.08 metres, breaking the previous UAE women’s U-20 record.

In fencing, the UAE national women’s team maintained their strong presence, with Alhayam Albalooshi winning silver in the foil event, while Zainab Moosa claimed bronze in the same event, further underlining the development of UAE fencing and its ability to compete at reginal level.

The UAE national billiards team also added a new bronze medal in the doubles event, as UAE athletes continued to build the country’s medal tally at the Gulf sporting event.

Earlier in the competition, the UAE national taekwondo team had already made a significant impact by securing five medals, including two gold, one silver, and two bronze.

This impressive performance not only reinforced the team’s strong presence at the Gulf level but also highlighted the depth of talent and dedication within the squad.

Their success reflects the effectiveness of the nation’s training programs and the sustained support for athletes, further establishing the UAE as a formidable contender in regional taekwondo competitions.

UAE national taekwondo athlete Abdulaziz Almheiri, who clinched gold in the men’s under-68kg category, emphasized that the strong support provided to athletes played a pivotal role in his success.

He noted that the encouragement from coaches, the comprehensive training programs, and the unwavering backing of sports authorities had all contributed significantly to his performance, reflecting the nation’s commitment to fostering talent and achieving excellence on the regional stage.

Almheiri said: “I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the team management and the UAE Olympic Committee for their great support and continued confidence, which helped us secure first place.”

He added: “This achievement would not have been possible without teamwork, encouragement and the care I received from everyone. I dedicate this victory to my country and to everyone who supported me throughout my sporting journey.”

UAE national taekwondo athlete Maha Rabie, who won silver in the women’s under-57kg category, also expressed her happiness at claiming the silver medal and representing the UAE honourably at the 4th GCC Games – Doha 2026.

Maha Rabie said: “I am happy to have won the silver medal and represented the UAE in the best possible way. The competition was strong, and I thank the technical, administrative and medical teams, as well as everyone who supported me. Special thanks go to coach Sanaa for her continued support and encouragement.”