DWTC launches highest wall climbing facility in the Middle East

DWTC officially opened 'The Wall' which was followed by an adrenalin-fuelled rush to the top, setting the first ever speed climbing record in the Middle East.

The joint project, established by DWTC in partnership with Dorell Sports, saw two world speed climbing champions battle it out for the title of fastest speed climb in the Middle East. World No.3 Maksym Stienkoyi of the Ukraine set the region's first ever speed climbing record in just 4.76 seconds overtaking World No.1 Evgeny Vaytsekhovsky for the title

Located at The Club at the Dubai Trade Centre Hotel Apartments along Sheikh Zayed Road, 'The Wall' is the tallest climbing facility in the Middle East standing at just over 15 metres. The facility was constructed by Holland-based Vertigo Climbing Structures under European specifications and meets world-class standards with 100 per cent safety for both climbing aficionados and the public. In addition, it is the first wall climbing facility in the region to be recognised by the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC), the international body that governs competition climbing worldwide.

Created in 2007, the IFSC is a continuation of the International Council for Competition Climbing which has been in existence since 1997. It is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and has 72 members across five continents.

Commenting on the historic event, Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre said:

"Sport promotion is extremely important and DWTC's establishment of 'The Wall' as well as the debut of a record breaking speed climbing competition, are excellent initiatives to get the population more active and enthused in sport."

"At DWTC we aim to provide rich, unique and world-class experiences and are pleased to present this state-of-the art facility to offer new experiences to visitors and residents alike. The highest climbing wall in Dubai, exceeding 15 m in height, will offer residents and tourists the opportunity to learn and enjoy this exciting sport - an excellent example of how DWTC continues to promote Dubai as one of the world's leading destinations."

DWTC and Dorell Sports plan to establish the first official federation of sport climbers in the Middle East together with IFSC, which will make Dubai the first member of IFSC in the region.