#United Arab Emirates #Dubai #Kazakhstan #UAE SWAT Challenge

Day One of the UAE SWAT Challenge 2026: Kazakhstan Teams Lead the Charge

The highly anticipated UAE SWAT Challenge 2026 has officially begun at the Training City in Al Ruwayyah, Dubai. This marks the seventh iteration of this prestigious event, drawing elite tactical police teams from around the globe. The atmosphere buzzed with competition as teams geared up for the Assault Challenge, the first of five specialized competitions scheduled for this year.

Kazakhstan's Dominance

From the outset, Kazakhstan C made a remarkable statement by clinching the top position in the Assault Challenge with an impressive completion time of 128.32 seconds, earning them a total of 109 points. Hot on their heels, Kazakhstan D secured second place, finishing in 130.72 seconds and accumulating 108 points. Meanwhile, Malakhit Team One from Russia completed the challenge in 135.98 seconds, which earned them the third spot with 107 points. The podium spots were awarded by the Organising Committee in a ceremonial presentation attended by stakeholders, sponsors, and dignitaries, including senior officers from Dubai Police.

The Organising Committee praised the exceptional level of performance displayed by the teams, highlighting their precise execution under challenging scenarios. The Assault Challenge evaluated competitors on various skills, including operational coordination, accurate live firing, obstacle navigation, and physical endurance, all while managing the evacuation of simulated casualties within a strict time limit.

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The event commenced amid a vibrant atmosphere, even attracting high-ranking officials such as His Excellency Lieutenant General Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri, the Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, and His Excellency Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of the Executive Council of Dubai. This year's challenge features a total prize pool of USD 260,000, distributed among the top-performing teams daily, in addition to overall prizes at the event’s conclusion.

During an inspection, Lt. Gen. Al Marri took the opportunity to review the competition venue, while also observing various supportive activities, including the Your Security Is Our Happiness exhibition, which aims to showcase Dubai Police's community engagement initiatives. He also visited the Media Centre, where live broadcasting and media coverage activities are managed, ensuring that the action reaches a global audience.

His commitment to the event was evident, as he welcomed all participating squads, reiterating the UAE SWAT Challenge's evolution into a prominent international platform. Notably, the previous year marked a milestone, with the championship earning a Guinness World Record for the highest number of participating nations in a tactical teams competition.

Upcoming Challenges

The UAE SWAT Challenge runs until February 11, 2026, featuring a series of intricate challenges ahead. Following the Assault Challenge, competitors will face the Hostage Rescue Challenge, then the Officer Rescue Challenge, the Tower Challenge, and ultimately the Obstacle Challenge. For those unable to attend in person, the challenges will be broadcast live on the Challenge's official YouTube channel in both Arabic and English, allowing fans worldwide to connect with the action.

In addition to the fierce competition, the event promises to be a family-friendly affair, with exhibitions and diverse food options available throughout the five-day programme. The public is warmly invited to witness the competitions live, offering them an opportunity to cheer on their favored teams and celebrate the spirit of teamwork and resilience that the tournament embodies.

The UAE SWAT Challenge stands as a testament to international collaboration and excellence in tactical policing, challenging teams in their skills while engaging communities and promoting safety.