Dubai to Host World’s Largest SWAT Competition This February

Dubai is gearing up to host the largest tactical teams event in the world, as the UAE SWAT Challenge returns from February 7 to 11 at Al Ruwayyah Training City. With teams from 48 countries already signed up, this year’s edition promises intense action, record-breaking participation, and live coverage for fans everywhere.

Biggest Edition Yet

The 2026 challenge marks the seventh edition of the event, with 114 teams registered so far and a total prize pool of $260,000. Organisers say registration is still open, and international teams are already arriving in Dubai.

“The UAE SWAT Challenge has grown from a local competition into the world’s largest event for tactical units,” said Brigadier Obaid Mubarak bin Yarouf Al Ketbi. Last year, the event entered the Guinness World Records for hosting the most countries in a tactical competition, with participation continuing to rise this year.

Live Action for Everyone

The competition will be broadcast daily on Dubai Sports Channel, Emirates Channel, and official digital platforms, with coverage in Arabic, English, and Chinese. Fans can also follow live updates on YouTube, TikTok, and even radio via Virgin Radio, Dubai Eye, and ARN.

A dedicated media centre at the venue will provide high-speed internet, photography platforms, podcast studios, and live-result screens for journalists and media crews covering the event.

Testing Tactical Excellence

The UAE SWAT Challenge is not just about competition—it’s a platform for elite teams to test operational readiness under realistic scenarios. Brigadier Dr Mohammad Al Janahi explained that the event promotes knowledge exchange, benchmarking, and best practices in specialised policing and rapid-intervention operations.

Judging will be overseen by 35 tactical experts, ensuring transparency and fairness across all events.

Women in Tactical Policing

For the first time, 10 women’s teams will compete, including newcomers from China, highlighting the challenge’s growing support for female participation in tactical operations. Dubai Police will also field men’s, women’s, and cadet teams from the Dubai Police Academy.

Open to the Public

The event is free for the public, inviting community members to witness world-class tactical teams in action up close.

Digital Impact

The UAE SWAT Challenge is also a social media powerhouse. Last year, the event generated over one billion social media views, 3,900 media reports, coverage in 522 newspapers across 49 languages, and 165 hours of TV broadcast by 70 international channels.

With Dubai once again hosting the world’s largest tactical competition, February promises high-stakes action, international teamwork, and cutting-edge policing in action.