Under the distinguished patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, the ‘Sports Imprint Award’ was bestowed upon Shyam Bhatia, a commendable figure in the cricketing world and a respected Indian businessman residing in Dubai. His Highness Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated, honored Bhatia during the fifth edition of the award ceremony.
The recognition comes as part of a collaborative effort between the Dubai Sports Council and Watani Al Emarat Foundation, under the umbrella of the Watani Al Emarat Humanitarian Work Award. This initiative seeks to celebrate individuals and organizations that drive positive societal values through sports. The ‘Sports Imprint Award’ particularly underlines the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) dedication towards acknowledging pioneering contributions that significantly bolster the sports sector.
Commending Shyam Bhatia’s vital role in enriching the sports landscape, the Dubai Sports Council highlighted his establishment of the world’s largest cricket museum in Dubai as a hallmark of his contributions. Bhatia’s museum offers an immersive experience into the intricacies of cricket history through an exquisite collection of memorabilia, capturing the essence of the sport’s rich legacy.
Aside from his museum endeavors, Bhatia’s philanthropic footprint includes the organization of an annual awards ceremony in the UAE, aimed at celebrating cricketing excellence. This prestigious event honors top cricketing talents across genders and officialdom, rewarding their achievements with cash prizes and commemorative accolades. Esteemed cricket legends grace the ceremony to present these awards, further symbolizing the event’s significance in nurturing cricket excellence.
Furthermore, the establishment of the ‘Cricket for Care’ charitable foundation under the Shyam Bhatia Foundation marks another significant milestone. This initiative is dedicated to supporting deserving cricketers, ensuring they receive the necessary aid for their development within the sport.
Bhatia’s dedication to cricket is evident in the years spent amassing a vast collection of memorabilia and artifacts that signify pivotal moments in cricket history. His efforts culminated in the inauguration of the cricket museum in Dubai’s Jumeirah area, which since its opening on April 18, 2010, has welcomed enthusiasts from around the globe. The museum showcases an array of iconic cricket-related items, alongside a special cricket library housing vintage books, including the world’s heaviest book weighing 25 kilograms.
This edition marks the fifth ‘Sports Imprint Award’ presentation within the Watani Al Emarat Humanitarian Work Award framework. The initiative’s inception was designed to foster a culture of humanitarianism in sports, encouraging societal and community contributions through this sector.
Over the years, various recipients have received the ‘Sports Imprint Award’ for their contributions to sports and societal well-being. From the Landmark Group’s commitment to health initiatives through sports to Nakheel’s efforts in promoting a balanced lifestyle with sports facilities, and the Al Khayyat Investment Group’s focus on modern sporting equipment. French footballer Mamadou Sakho was also celebrated for his humanitarian contributions through the ‘Amsak’ initiative, demonstrating the Award’s universal appeal and significance across diverse sports disciplines.
In its essence, the ‘Sports Imprint Award’ strives to uphold the spirit of giving and humanitarianism within the sports community, a mission commendably advanced through collaboration between the Dubai Sports Council and Watani Al Emarat Foundation. As it continues to honor those who contribute significantly to this noble cause, the Award serves as a testament to the enduring bond between sports and societal development.
