Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence met with International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah during his first official visit to India on Wednesday.
The Dubai Crown Prince also held discussions with Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma, along with players Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav in Mumbai, the Dubai Media Office said in a statement on Wednesday.
During the meetings, the Crown Prince of Dubai emphasised the UAE’s dedication to developing global sport through international partnerships, highlighting the nation’s emergence as a centre for sporting events.
Sheikh Hamdan praises Indian cricket
“The UAE’s infrastructure, innovation, and long-term vision make it a natural hub for international sporting excellence,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
He further highlighted the significance of Dubai hosting the ICC headquarters since 2005, describing it as evidence of the UAE’s support for international sporting bodies.
Sheikh Hamdan congratulated the Indian players on their victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, which concluded with the final match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in March.
The Indian cricketers shared their experiences of competing in UAE tournaments and praised the country’s facilities, organisation, and sporting atmosphere.
Sheikh Hamdan also mentioned cricket’s growing popularity in the UAE under the Emirates Cricket Board, led by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, and reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to developing the sport.
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