Highland Games ‘Dubai-style’: Heriot-Watt celebrates Scottish culture at Emirates

It was a colourful clash of East v West at the weekend as the best of Scottish traditional sport, entertainment and cuisine came to Dubai in the form of the popular Highland Games held at Heriot-Watt University's Dubai Campus.

It is great to see people coming together to watch and take part in traditional Scottish sports and experience a flavour of Scotland, and all for a very good cause
Prof. Steve Chapman, Principal of Heriot-Watt University

Activities including a tug-o-war, shot, weight over the bar and weight for distance, football, volleyball and relay races saw students, alumni and the University Principal, Professor Steve Chapman join in the fun and battle it out for victory - and pride - along with members of the Scottish expatriate community and Scottish dignitaries.

The Games, which took place on Saturday 11 February at Etisalat Academy, also ran events for the younger generation of budding sports talent, including ‘wellie’ throwing and fun runs whilst further entertainment was provided by highland dancers and rousing music from a band of pipers.

Professor Steve Chapman, Principal of Heriot-Watt University, said: “I am delighted to have visited Dubai once again to open this year’s Highland Games. Whilst last year’s event was a great success, this year has surpassed all our expectations, with more sporting events taking place, more people attending and an even better atmosphere. It is great to see people coming together to watch and take part in traditional Scottish sports and experience a flavour of Scotland, and all for a very good cause.”

All proceeds from the event will go to the Al Noor training Center for Children with Special Needs.