A series of competitions running until April 2 – from football to volleyball, basketball, badminton, tug-of-war and athletics
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On the road to recovery from the pandemic, hundreds of frontline doctors, nurses, medical staff and non-medical workers were in high spirits for the largest healthcare sports event at Al Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, inaugurated the 4th Burjeel Games in 2023 – which will run until 2 April.
The ongoing Ramadan Championships, organized by Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and Burjeel Holdings, attracted the wholehearted participation of more than 1,100 healthcare workers.
During the evening competition, employees from different Burjeel Holdings medical facilities were divided into teams to compete. Men and women battle it out in different competitions, including soccer, volleyball, basketball, badminton, tug-of-war and athletics.
Dr. Naveen Hood Ali, who also fasts during the holy month, noted that the tournament encouraged him to set fitness goals for the rest of the year.
“I look forward to our annual sports championship every year. This game is special because it comes in the post-pandemic period. Even though I am fasting, I don’t feel tired. Instead, I just feel tired in this environment. Full of energy,” said Dr Ali, Director of Operations at LLH and Medeor Hospitals in Abu Dhabi.
The ADSC called the Games the “biggest sporting event” in the UAE’s healthcare sector.
Suhail Abdulla Al Areefi, Executive Director of ADSC’s Sports Events Sector, said the event is an excellent opportunity for individuals to stay active and healthy.
“We are delighted to offer our support and guidance to ensure the success of the competition.”
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, noted that the annual event aims to encourage and promote the physical health and well-being of the group’s employees.
Minnath P, a laboratory technician at Dubai’s Burjeel Hospital, said there was a carnival atmosphere on the island, a welcome change in post-pandemic services.
“It’s been a wonderful experience so far. It’s been a great opportunity to network and get to know colleagues from outside the hospital. It’s also been fun meeting new people from other hospitals and facilities. The atmosphere is vibrant, especially when When people start cheering for their favorite team. I come here every day, soak up the vibe and support my team.”
Safeer Ahamed, chief operating officer of Burjeel Holdings, said the event will serve as a platform to uncover hidden talents among employees and help them develop new skills.
“I’m sure these games will bring out the best in our colleagues and help them be more productive,” he added.