SPIA to make Abu Dhabi debut, marking new era for Middle East sport
Sports Industry Awards [SPIA] is coming to Abu Dhabi for the first time, signaling a bold new chapter for the Middle East's premier celebration of sporting excellence.
Since its inception in 2012, SPIA has proudly recognised achievements across individuals, entities, facilities and campaigns that have driven the growth of sport throughout the region.
Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is Strategic Partner for May 20's glittering 12th edition at the capital's Space42 Arena, with further support provided by Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The event is organised by Sport360X – a leading digital publisher and sports consultancy agency – and Interact, a social impact and marketing agency.
Hospitality packages are still available on the official SPIA website for 2025's gala evening, which will reveal winners across 19 competitive categories selected via an independent judging process.
This prestigious event provides a stage to celebrate exceptional achievements, connect with industry leaders and highlight the latest innovations shaping the world of sport.
Bassam Nawfal, Managing Director of Sport360X, said: 'We're thrilled to present the 12th edition of SPIA, an especially significant occasion as we host the event in Abu Dhabi for the very first time.
'This exciting new chapter would not have been possible without the outstanding support of Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, plus our other partners and sponsors, to whom we extend our sincere gratitude.
'Sport in the Middle East continues to thrive, and we are proud to have received an exceptional array of submissions from visionary organisations and remarkable individuals. The innovative Space42 Arena sets the stage for what promises to be a landmark celebration of sporting excellence in the region.
'At Sport360X, we are honoured to carry the responsibility of awarding the industry's finest through a transparent, fair and meticulous judging process.
'SPIA has grown into the region's leading sports industry celebration and we can't wait to welcome you all on May 20.'
The judging process for SPIA is marked by thoroughness and transparency – and 2025's edition was no different. Since the inception of the Awards, each submission has undergone rigorous assessment, measured against defined criteria by a panel with extensive expertise across various areas of the sports sector, ensuring the process is conducted with the highest levels of integrity and fairness.
Transparency is of utmost importance, with 16 judges following a systematic and impartial approach to guarantee a fair playing field for all entrants.
These included H.H. Princess Nouf AlSaud (General Manager – Marketing, Ministry of Sport Saudi Arabia), H.E. Ali Al Ali (CEO & Board Member, Dubai Racing Club), Richard Scudamore (Former Executive Chairman & CEO, Premier League) and Marina Storti (CEO, WTA Ventures).
Through careful deliberation and constructive discussion, the panel selects worthy winners who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and contributions within their respective fields.
Gold Sponsors for SPIA 2025 are Motus One and Plan B. Marca return as Media Partner, giving the event access to a network of more than 93 million monthly unique users at one of the world's greatest publications.
MG – Inter Emirates Motors Subsidiary of Ali & Sons Holding – have signed up as Silver Sponsors.
ABOUT THE ORGANISERS
Sport360X
Sport360X has been telling the Middle East's very best sports stories for more than a decade across video, social, gaming and events. It boasts the narrative and creative skills, in Arabic and English, to produce market-leading content that builds affinity with fans and commercial partners alike.
Access is provided to more than 15m followers on Sport360X's native social media platforms, plus websites that generate more than 12m monthly page views.
Interact
Interact was founded in 2014 from a bold vision to inspire a healthier, more active generation.
As the owners of the Sports Industry Series, Interact partners with leading brands and government bodies to embed healthy behaviours deep within communities.
Their work spans the design, delivery and promotion of impactful, large-scale initiatives and events that boost physical activity, support healthier eating, and improve mental well-being across diverse population.
Sport Industry Series
October 2024's game-changing partnership saw Interact's Sport Industry Forum and Sport360X's SPIA come together under Sport Industry Series.
By combining the skills and network of both organisations, this union creates even greater value for the region's sport sector.
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