Dubai Readies for UAE SWAT Challenge 2026 as 114 Teams Register from 48 Countries
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 6 February 2026: The Organising Committee of the UAE SWAT Challenge has confirmed full organisational and field readiness for the seventh edition of the global competition, scheduled to take place from 7 to 11 February 2026 at Al Ruwayyah Training City in Dubai.
Largest edition to date
The Organising Committee revealed that 114 teams from 48 countries have registered to compete so far. The total prize pool for the 2026 edition stands at USD 260,000, confirming the UAE SWAT Challenge as the largest and most prestigious tactical teams competition in the world.
The Committee confirmed full readiness on both organisational and operational levels, as teams continue to arrive in Dubai ahead of the competition.
Global growth and record-breaking milestones
Brigadier Obaid Mubarak bin Yarouf Al Ketbi highlighted the continuous growth and international success of the UAE SWAT Challenge since it was transformed from a local event into a global competition in 2018, following the directives of His Highness Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.
He noted that the challenge has grown into the world’s largest event of its kind for tactical and special operations units, with steadily increasing participation from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
He added that last year’s edition entered the Guinness World Records for hosting the highest number of countries ever to participate in a tactical teams competition, with 46 countries represented. Participation has risen from 61 teams in the first edition to 114 teams in the 2026 edition, reflecting the challenge’s strong global standing.
Women’s participation and Dubai Police teams
First Lieutenant Yasser Al Zarooni explained that the Organising Committee has mobilised all available resources to ensure the event reflects the UAE’s and Dubai’s excellence in hosting major global events. He noted that teams have already begun arriving for early training and preparations.
He confirmed that this year’s edition includes 10 women’s teams, with some teams competing for the first time, including teams from China, highlighting the challenge’s success in encouraging female participation and showcasing their capabilities.
Dubai Police will participate with two men’s teams, two women’s teams, and two cadet teams from the Dubai Police Academy.
The Purpose
The UAE SWAT Challenge aims to strengthen cooperation among tactical teams, facilitate the exchange of expertise, highlight the latest global practices in rapid intervention operations, and assess operational readiness in addressing complex and evolving security challenges.
