Founded by a group of Irish citizens in the early nineties, Abu Dhabi Na Fianna is now one of the world’s fastest growing GAA clubs and a centre for the UAE’s thriving Irish community. Through the Chair charts the history of this extraordinary club from the perspective of those who built it. With contributions from all former chairs, discover what it takes to build a successful sports organisation. Read the stories, anecdotes and insights from those who know the club best, and learn numerous lessons in leadership.
Some Snaps from The History of Na Fianna
A History of Abu Dhabi Na Fianna in 8 Fascinating Facts
The Inaugural Gulf Hurling Championship Final 1994 was sponsored by Murphy's Irish Stout. Pictured is the programme in both English and Irish.
Abu Dhabi Na Fianna took the name 'Finnegan Islanders' in 1995, securing sponsorship from a local Irish bar, Finnegans.
Social gatherings and bonding among members was always high on the club's list of priorities, and a Na Fianna contingent travelled to Iran to watch Ireland's World Cup playoff against Iran in 2001. Pictured is Johnny Rea and Neil Creedon, two former chairs of Na Fianna, with Ireland soccer manager Mick McCarthy.
Na Fianna Senior ladies won the 2015 Asian Championship in Shanghai. Here they are pictured with Gaelic games legend Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh.
His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan opened the inaugural 2015 World GAA Games in Abu Dhabi with a swing of the hurley. Also pictured is Aogán Ó Fearghail, former President of the GAA.
The GAA World Games took place in Croke Park in 2016. Pictured in battle is Ciáran McGinley of Abu Dhabi Na Fianna and Colm Coyle of Middle East GAA.
Na Fianna juvenile football, hurling and camogie is growing rapidly, with children from countries as diverse as Canada, Greece, UK, Japan and the USA being represented in recent years. Na Fianna U-8s and U12s took part in exhibition games during the 'GAA All-Stars hurling tour' to Abu Dhabi in 2019.
The majority of club members are now female. Pictured is the victorious Na Fianna Senior Ladies team at the 2021 Bahrain Games.