Dominican Republic makes historic debut at UAE SWAT Challenge 2026
National Police team prepares for February competition in Dubai
DUBAI – The National Police of the Dominican Republic has confirmed its first-ever participation in the UAE SWAT Challenge 2026, marking a milestone for the Caribbean nation on the global tactical policing stage.
The seventh edition of the international competition will be held from 7 to 11 February at Training City in Al Ruwayyah, Dubai. The event is recognised as one of the most demanding professional policing challenges worldwide.
The announcement underscores the growing international reach of the UAE SWAT Challenge, which brings together elite police and tactical units to compete in realistic, high-pressure operational scenarios designed to test skill, speed and coordination.
UAE SWAT Challenge 2026
General Johnny Soto Abreu, Central Director of Police Operations for the Dominican Republic National Police, described the challenge as a vital global forum for specialised units. He noted that participation allows teams to exchange expertise and observe advanced tactical approaches used by leading forces from different regions.
According to General Abreu, the competition provides exposure to evolving methodologies in urban operations, firearms handling, rescue missions and team-based tactical response, all within a highly controlled but demanding environment.
Intensive preparation
General Abreu said the Dominican team has undergone extensive preparation ahead of its debut appearance. He highlighted that training has focused on discipline, coordination and operational precision to ensure readiness for the complex scenarios presented during the challenge.
He added that each stage of the competition offers an opportunity to strengthen teamwork and refine rapid response capabilities, skills that directly support operational effectiveness within the Dominican Republic.
Elite gathering
The UAE SWAT Challenge 2026 will feature a world-class line-up of special police units, rapid intervention teams and tactical squads from across the globe. Teams will compete across multiple scenarios that simulate real-life policing and security operations.