Organised by the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, the shooting range at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Gold Club in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will serve as the venue for the event.

The contract to host and organise the World Championships was signed at an event at the historic Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain on Wednesday (February 9).

World Shooting Para Sport’s chairperson of the Sport Technical Committee Ghislaine Briez and secretary general of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination Abdullah Abdulalee Al Humaidan was present for the contract-signing ceremony.

Briez and executive director of the People of Determination Sector Abdullah Ismail Al Kamali signed the contract.

Over a thousand participants, including athletes, coaches and delegations representing more than 50 countries will be at the World Championships.

According to World Shooting Para Sport, 31 athletes can seal a spot for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games based on their performances at Al Ain 2022.

A total of 27 medal events, including those for visually impaired athletes, are set to take place at Al Ain.

"We welcome the hosting of the World Championships, and we promise the delivery of an exceptional event," said Al Humaidan.

"The emirate of Abu Dhabi, represented by Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, possesses extensive experience gained from hosting regional and international sports tournaments, particularly in shooting Para sport, through the organisation of five World Cups.

"In previous years, the organisation received a certificate of appreciation and praise from both the participants and the IPC, which resulted in a direct request from the committees for the organisation to host the first World Championship in the region."

Meanwhile, Briez thanked the Government and people of the UAE and all other officials for hosting the competition.

"This year’s tournament will differ from previous events [in Al Ain] as it is the most important competition in the World Shooting Para Sport calendar in 2022," Briez said.

"We expect a record number of athletes, delegations and countries will participate for the chance to secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. 

"This will require a tremendous effort from the Organising Committee to ensure the event’s success."

 The World Shooting Para Sports Championships in Al Ain will be the eighth edition, with Sydney, Australia hosting the previous version in 2019.