Dubai threw its arms wide open to the swimming world and Violinist Diana Yukawa as her solo performance marked the opening of the 10th Fina World Swimming Championships (25m) got under at the brand-new Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Sports Complex on 15th December.
The opening, that was held in two parts, first witnessed the formal inauguration of the £250 million complex followed by the opening of the championships in the presence of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman, Dubai Sports Council and Princess Haya Bint Al Hussain, wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The ceremony unfolded an artistic tale that begins with the nomadic heritage of the UAE, travelling through the golden sands of the desert and time and concluding with the flourishing of the coastal port of Dubai.
The theme of water, echoed in the Championships' colours of turquoise and aquamarine was central to the opening, showcasing the marriage between sports and culture, while also capturing the traditional Arabic heritage and modern innovation that are the two integral faces of a vibrant and booming Dubai today.
This was followed by the parade of the participating countries — up to a record 153 from the earlier number of 148 — carrying their respective national colours. The cheering crowd was treated to a heavenly sight as solo violinist, Diana Yukawa descended on a special platform, opening the extravaganza whilst acrobats suspended from the roof of the pool formed the backdrop.
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