Sri Lanka Minister Takes Part in Dubai Sports Summit

A senior-level dialogue on the future direction of global sport and the structural changes shaping the industry took place on the margins of the World Governments Summit 2026 in Dubai, drawing sports ministers and top officials from multiple nations.

Sri Lanka was represented at the forum by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, who joined counterparts and delegates from the United Arab Emirates, Ecuador, Lebanon, Tunisia, Seychelles and South Africa for the high-profile roundtable.

Discussions centred on the growing influence of technology on sport, with particular attention given to the expanding use of data analytics, artificial intelligence and immersive digital platforms. Participants observed that sport is no longer viewed solely as competition or entertainment, but increasingly as a powerful driver of public health, youth empowerment and social cohesion.

The session explored how emerging technologies are transforming sports administration, athlete development and fan interaction, while also underlining the importance of updating governance models and funding mechanisms to keep pace with these changes. Ensuring fair and inclusive access to sporting opportunities in a rapidly digitising world was another key theme.

Delegates also considered ways in which governments, international organisations and sporting bodies can work together to build stronger regulatory systems and promote sustainable growth across the sector.

Among those taking part were UAE Minister of Sports Ahmad Bin Abdulla Belhoul Alfalasi; Ecuador’s Minister of Education and Sports Gilda Alcívar García; Lebanon’s Minister of Youth and Sports Nora Bayrakdarin; Tunisia’s Minister of Youth and Sports Sadok Mourali; Seychelles’ Minister for Youth and Sports Kalsey Bella; and South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie.

The roundtable was further enriched by the presence of internationally recognised athletes and representatives from leading global sports federations, highlighting the broad-based interest in shaping the future of sport.