The blockbuster ninth edition of the Sports Industry Awards gathered more than 300 guests for a night of celebration at the W Hotel Great Ball Room.
Leading practitioners from across the region got excited to witness victories in 18 categories. Winners in 11 categories were selected by an independent jury composed of industry experts chosen for their expertise in the Middle East, while four were chosen by public vote and there were three special honorary trophies.
The last part was headlined by official media partner Twitter’s ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ – who also provided a bespoke branded hashtag. Leading Emirati football commentator Faris Awad took home the trophy.
A huge ovation was reserved for Team Angel Wolf on Tuesday when they were honored with the Spirit of Sport Award for their tireless work in promoting inclusive, active lives for those with determination. Co-founder Nick Watson gave an inspirational speech alongside son Rio – who was born with a rare chromosomal disorder – and daughter Tia.
“Our whole goal is to make sure that kids like Rio, a boy with determination, are included in the community,” the father said.
“But this community has embraced us – and that is each of you here.”
SPIA 2022 was also supported by YouGov Sport, a global esports, sponsorship and entertainment research company that works with key esports stakeholders to generate meaningful, actionable insights. A representative from Qutek – a company that integrates intelligent technology into people’s personal health care and well-being in their daily lives – was on hand to distribute gongs.
A gala ceremony was secured with the help of award-winning agency Memories Events Management. The official drinking partner was Mai Dubai.
Notable triumphs included the 2021 Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which completed a double of Best Fan Engagement at a Professional Sports Event and Best Sports Event of the Year.
May Dubai x Promoseven Sports Marketing was awarded “Best Sponsorship Collaboration of the Year”, Zayed Sports City was awarded “Best Recreational Sports Facility of the Year” and the Mubadala Community Cup presented by Healthpoint received the “Best Sports Event CSR Initiative of the Year”. “. ‘.
