FAQ

1-
How often do the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) take place?

These Championships have been held every two years since the inaugural Championships in 1993. The last event was held in Manchester UK in 2008. This is the first time the event will be held in the Middle East.

2-
What is the difference between short course and long course swimming?

Short course swimming competitions are held in a 25 metre pool while long course swimming is contested in a 50 metre pool. This means that short course swimming is extremely quick and exciting, with speedy starts and turns a vital part of a good performance. As a result, there are separate sets of world records for short and long course swimming.

3-
Where else do short course swimming events take place?

Apart from the FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) which take place every two years, there is an annual FINA World Cup – a multiple-leg series of short course events which take place around the world.

4-
What are the dates for the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m)?

The Championships will be held 15 – 19 December 2010 inclusive with the Opening Ceremony held prior to the first evening session on 15 December.

5-
Will there be an Opening Ceremony?

The Opening Ceremony for the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) will be conducted on 15 December starting at 1730 and be followed by the Championships first evening session. The Opening Ceremony will include an exciting artistic show as well as the traditional Parade of Nations and the taking of the Competitors’ and Officials’ oaths.

6-
Who will compete in the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m)?

Swimmers from over 130 national teams from around the world will be coming to Dubai to compete in the Championships. Dubai is preparing to host approximately 1500 swimmers and officials for the event.

7-
What events will form part of the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m)?

Men and Women will compete in 40 different events:

Freestyle: 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m and 1,500m
Backstroke: 50m, 100m and 200m
Breaststroke: 50m, 100m and 200m
Butterfly: 50m, 100m and 200m
Individual Medley: 50m, 100m and 200m
Relays: 4×100 m freestyle, 4×200 m freestyle and 4×100 m medley

8-
Where will the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) be held in Dubai?

The 10th FINA World Swimming Championships will be held at the new, state-of-the-art Dubai Sports Complex, which is located on the Dubai Bypass Road. Click here for more information.

9-
Will there be public transport to and from the venue?

Final transportation details will be announced in the coming weeks. Please keep an eye on the website for more information.

10-
Where can I buy tickets to the 10th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) in Dubai?

Tickets will go on sale from the end of September. Stay tuned for full details. Prices range from just AED10 to AED30 for “A” seats and finals.

11-
Do children have to pay to enter?

Tickets are one price for all. Children under three years of age who will sit on a parent’s lap, will be admitted free.

12-
Will there be other activities and entertainment besides the swimming?

Yes, when you’re not having taking in the electrifying atmosphere in the stands, there will be plenty to keep you and your children occupied with a special Souk Lane fan zone with fun for all ages and a dedicated shopping area with unique and exclusive products to the event.

13-
Can I buy official merchandise at the venue?

Absolutely! There will be a wide range of exclusive commemorative items and swim related products on sale to remember your visit to the largest swimming event of its kind in the Middle East.

14-
Will there be food available at the venue?

Yes, you can treat yourself to some delicious dishes with plenty to choose from at the various food and beverage outlets within the Dubai Sports Complex. Another option is to book a corporate hospitality package, where meals are provided in the comfort of an exclusive area which boasts the best seats in the house. Call +971 4 321 0008 for more information on these packages. Please remember, you will not be permitted to bring your own food and drinks into the venue.

15-
What time do the races start each day?

Each day of competition will be split into a morning and evening session. The morning sessions will see the swimmers competing in heats, starting from 0930 until approximately 1200. The evening sessions are when the finals will be contested. The excitement starts after the Opening Ceremony on 15 December and 1830 on the remaining four nights. The finals session will last for approximately 2.5-3.0 hours including the medal presentations.