“The UAE is mourning the passing of Osama Al Shaafar, a former Federal National Council member and influential figure in the nation’s sporting community, remembered widely for his leadership, dedication, and legacy.”
UAE Grieves the Loss of Osama Al Shaafar, Former FNC Member and Respected Sports Leader.
The United Arab Emirates is united in grief following the passing of Osama Al Shaafar, a distinguished figure who held several prominent roles in public service and sports leadership. Al Shaafar, who previously served as a member of the Federal National Council (FNC) and also led both the UAE Cycling Federation and the Asian Cycling Confederation, died on Wednesday after suffering a tragic accident overseas. His sudden death has sent shockwaves across the nation, leaving communities, colleagues, and sports enthusiasts struggling to come to terms with the loss of a man widely regarded as a visionary and a driving force behind the growth of competitive cycling in the region.
News of his passing spread rapidly, prompting an immediate outpouring of sorrow from citizens, residents, and countless individuals who had been touched by his work. Within hours, social media timelines transformed into spaces of collective mourning, filled with heartfelt tributes, photographs, and memories shared by those who admired him. Many posts reflected not only respect for his public contributions but also deep personal affection, describing him as someone who consistently demonstrated humility, generosity, and warmth.
Friends and associates remembered Al Shaafar as a leader who never hesitated to roll up his sleeves and work alongside others. His dedication helped elevate the profile of cycling in the UAE, turning it into both a competitive sport and a community pastime embraced by people of all ages. Under his guidance, the UAE’s presence in international cycling events grew significantly, and he was often credited with nurturing local talent and pushing for greater regional participation in global competitions. His efforts extended beyond official roles; he was frequently seen interacting with athletes, volunteers, and sporting officials, offering encouragement and advice with genuine sincerity.
Those who worked with him in the Federal National Council recalled his passion for national development and his strong desire to contribute meaningfully to the progress of the country. He was known as a thoughtful listener, a committed public servant, and a person who valued unity and dialogue. His loss, they said, leaves a void not only in the sporting community but in the broader landscape of public service.
For many, what made Al Shaafar especially memorable was his character. Colleagues described him as a man who embodied loyalty and integrity. Community members referred to him as approachable and kind-hearted, someone who made time for people regardless of their background or status. His ability to inspire trust and respect was evident in the overwhelming number of condolences shared online, with messages pouring in from athletes, officials, friends, and followers from across the region and beyond.
As tributes continue to flow, the UAE remembers Osama Al Shaafar not only for the titles he held or the achievements he accomplished, but for the impact he made on individuals and institutions alike. His legacy, shaped by years of dedication to both national service and the advancement of sports, will be carried forward by the many people he mentored and influenced. The nation now mourns a leader whose life was defined by service, passion, and an unwavering commitment to his community. His absence will be deeply felt for years to come.
In the wake of Osama Al Shaafar’s passing, numerous organisations and public institutions across the UAE expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to his legacy. Prominent sports broadcasters, such as Sharjah Sports and Dubai Sports, were among the first to offer heartfelt condolences to his grieving family. Their statements highlighted the profound contributions Al Shaafar made over the years, noting how his leadership helped elevate the status of cycling and other sporting disciplines within the region. Both channels reflected on his unwavering commitment to nurturing athletic talent and strengthening the UAE’s presence in international sporting arenas.
The Federal National Council also released a message of sympathy, honouring Al Shaafar’s dedication during his time as an FNC member. The Council acknowledged his active involvement in national issues and commended the passion he brought to public service. Members recalled his professionalism, his cooperative spirit, and his ability to contribute insightfully to discussions that shaped various community and legislative initiatives. Their tribute portrayed him as not only a prominent public figure but also a respected colleague whose presence will be deeply missed.
As more tributes surfaced, a clear picture emerged of a man who had left an unmistakable mark on both the UAE’s sporting sector and its broader civic landscape. At just 51 years old, Al Shaafar had achieved a level of influence that few accomplish in a lifetime. Those who worked alongside him frequently described him as forward-thinking, energetic, and deeply committed to the development of sports across Asia. His leadership roles at both the UAE Cycling Federation and the Asian Cycling Confederation were remembered as pivotal in driving international collaborations, enhancing regional standards, and encouraging youth participation in cycling.
Friends, colleagues, and long-time acquaintances took to social media to share heartfelt memories and personal photographs, reflecting on the profound impact Osama Al Shaafar had on those around him. Many spoke of how approachable he was, describing him as someone who treated everyone with the same warmth and sincerity. His gentle nature, coupled with a humble personality and a smile that rarely left his face, made him unforgettable in the eyes of those who knew him. Several posts echoed a common sentiment: Al Shaafar was more of a brother than a friend — the kind of person who would readily lend support, offer guidance, and stand beside others during difficult times.
His contributions extended far beyond personal relationships. In 2019, Al Shaafar earned a seat on the Federal National Council, representing Dubai, where he worked diligently on national matters. Following his passing, the Asian Cycling Confederation issued an official statement mourning the loss of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of the sport across the continent.
Arabic media outlets highlighted the remarkable length and depth of his sporting career, which stretched over more than twenty years. During this period, Al Shaafar assumed several key leadership roles. For eight years, he served as president of the UAE Cycling Federation, a time marked by significant improvements in athlete performance, stronger training systems, and increased international hosting of major cycling events. His influence continued to expand as he later presided over the Asian Cycling Confederation and took on the position of Vice President at the International Cycling Union (UCI).
His portfolio of responsibilities also included leading the UAE Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, serving as Vice Chairman of the Olympic Council of Asia’s International Relations Committee, and contributing as a member of the Asian Sporting Federations Committee
Al Shaafar’s accomplishments were widely recognized. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from the Faculty of Sports Sciences in Uzbekistan and received multiple prestigious distinctions, among them the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Creative Sports Award in 2018, the Sports Achievement Award, and the Gold Medal of Honor from the International Federation of Bodybuilding in 2009.
