Bouldering and climbing scene is on the brink of a revolution in the Middle East – and it is happening this May!
Rock Republic Dubai, the first and biggest indoor bouldering gym in the region, is scheduled to open bigger and better than ever this May –and it was about time.
Pete Aldwinckle, one of the partners at Global Climbing and the force behind this development, explains: “A few things have been happening recently that have indirectly enabled Rock Republic to operate and grow as a response to the market demand: first, for a number of years these activities have been offered as a part of GCSE and NICAS systems. Climbing is not new; however, the indoor element makes it possible to provide the same environment and teach the same skills anywhere in the world. Population of UAE comprises roughly of 14% students (1.1mil in 2015) and UAE has the highest number of international schools globally with predictions to double the number of educational facilities from 2014 to 2020. We want to be able to support this trend and offer world-class facilities to accommodate this growth. This is the academic angle.
Second, Sports Climbing and Bouldering have joined the Olympics 2020 as new disciplines. This has tremendous impact at how popular both branches are to become. UAE is home to 9.2million people and estimated 61% are working professionals. Those with disposable income allowing them to enjoy such activities as bouldering are following trends and active lifestyle is no exception; we know this because we have literally grown out of our 250sq meters facility and quadrupled our footfall over the last 3 years. Our expansion is merely the answer to current and projected market trend.”
Rock Republic expansion includes doubling its space and brand new facilities such as private mezzanine area, shower, toilets and resting facilities, and dedicated training floor area for the beasts that come and train regularly. “We want to create a fantastic workout environment for everybody aged six years and up. This expansion finally allows us to offer dedicated classes for kids, after school activities for students and upgrades to the current climbing classes with the addition of Pilates and Yoga specially designed for climbers and much more. We see so much potential in this beautiful sport and are proud to be its pioneers here in Middle East,” adds Guida Verschut, Partner and Business Development Director for Rock Republic and Global Climbing.
Rock Republic Dubai will be ready for you at the end of May with revamped timings and comprehensive schedule to keep you committed to get fit, get strong and get social. Summer also promises Boulder Bash competition and summer camps for kids. You can get in touch with Vanda, the Prime Minister of Rock Republic on Facebook (rock.republic.dubai), email rockrepublic@globalclimbing.com or give their super friendly staff a call on 050 1001370. ■
Long live the Rock!
