This August, for the first time, the UAE will send a national squad of transplant recipients and living donors to the World Transplant Games under Hayat, the country’s organ donation programme. They’ll compete in 17 different sports, but the real story isn’t about medals, it’s about the powerful journeys that brought them here.
What Are the World Transplant Games?
The Games are a global sporting event for transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families. Launched in 1978, they now bring together thousands of participants every two years from 60 countries.
It’s a multi-sport event — track and field, cycling, swimming, and more — but it’s also a platform to raise awareness and honor the people behind every transplant story: donors, doctors, families, and fighters.
Why This Moment Matters for the UAE
The UAE only joined the World Transplant Games Federation last year. This debut marks a turning point — not just in sports, but in how the country discusses organ donation.
According to the UAE National Transplant Committee, “Global statistics show that only 10% of patients in need receive organ transplants. We must create more integrated healthcare models that empower the public to donate—and save lives.”
Hayat — meaning “life” — is the programme leading this movement. And Team UAE is its beating heart.
Meet the Athletes Behind the Headlines
Hind Juma
Two years ago, Hind donated her kidney to her mother. “Today, we’re both thriving. I run with her strength, our shared story & a kidney that reminds me what love can do.”
She will be joining the 5km, 3km, and 100m races. For her, every step is personal.
Katie Larkins
Katie’s life was saved in 2021 from liver disease through the UAE–Kuwait organ exchange programme. Now, as team leader and athlete, she’s competing in the 5km, 3km walk, and petanque. “I run to honor my donor, thank the UAE, and inspire others to turn second chances into something extraordinary.”
Omar “OT” Tom
Omar has received not one but two kidney transplants, donated by his family. “I’m competing for gold at the World Transplant Games to honor their sacrifices, celebrate the resilience it took to survive.”
He’s an entrepreneur and sprinter, competing in the 100m and 200m events.
Fatima Rashid
A kidney transplant turned Fatima into an athlete. She’s now competing in 100m, 200m, 5km, and Javelin. “I compete to prove that strength isn’t just physical—it’s mental, spiritual, and fueled by purpose.”
Justin Anthony
After a double lung transplant, Justin is taking on bowling, javelin, darts, and ball throw. “From living on oxygen 24/7 to throwing javelins in Germany. I’m breathing freely today thanks to my donor.”
Husena Beguwala
Husena’s story goes beyond sport. A double lung transplant recipient, she’s competing in the 5km and 3km races. “I now run for my son, for awareness, and for everyone still waiting to rewrite their story.”
The Real Win? Changing the Narrative
This isn’t just about sport. It’s about visibility. It’s about showing the world that organ donation isn’t the end of a story. It’s the start of a powerful new one.
And this August, Team UAE is ready to write it on the world stage.
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