If your child has been diagnosed with a heart condition, one of the first questions that may come to mind is: Can they still play sports? For parents in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Al Ain—where school athletics, football academies, and weekend swimming classes are common—this is more than just a health concern. It’s about helping a child stay confident, active, and included.
The good news? A heart condition doesn’t always mean saying goodbye to sports. With the right precautions and support, many children with cardiac concerns can continue to live active, joyful lives.
Breaking the Myths
One of the biggest misconceptions is that heart conditions automatically mean physical activity must stop. In reality, blanket restrictions often do more harm than good.
Many pediatric heart conditions—especially when properly diagnosed and managed—allow for safe participation in various sports. The key is individualized assessment and supervision. No two heart conditions are exactly alike, and neither are two children’s needs.
Our pediatric cardiology team at KidsHeart works with families to evaluate fitness levels, risks, and readiness—so children can move forward with confidence.
The Role of Pre-Participation Heart Screening
Before starting or returning to any physical activity, a cardiac fitness evaluation is essential. This is especially important in the UAE, where many schools and sports clubs are becoming more vigilant about pre-participation checks.
A typical screening may include:
- A detailed health history and physical exam
- An electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm
- Echocardiography (ultrasound) to look at heart structure
- In some cases, a stress test to see how the heart responds to exercise
Our Sports Participation & Heart Health program is designed specifically for active children, including those with known or suspected cardiac issues. This evaluation helps determine the safest level of participation—whether that’s modified PE classes or competitive training.
Conditions That Need Extra Caution
While many children with heart conditions can participate in sports, some diagnoses require more careful planning. These include:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Severe arrhythmias or implanted pacemakers
- Unrepaired congenital heart defects
- History of fainting during exercise
- Pulmonary hypertension
In these cases, activity may need to be restricted or adapted, but not necessarily avoided altogether. The goal is to keep children engaged while protecting their health.
Learn more about how we support these conditions on our Pediatric Arrhythmia Management and Pacemaker Monitoring pages.
Keeping Kids Safe in the UAE Climate
Playing sports in the UAE brings additional considerations. The high temperatures and humidity—especially during summer—can strain the heart even in healthy children.
For those with heart conditions, we advise:
- Avoiding outdoor sports during peak midday heat
- Hydrating well before, during, and after play
- Using indoor or climate-controlled facilities when possible
- Ensuring coaches and teachers are aware of the child’s condition and action plan
At KidsHeart, we often provide written guidelines for schools and sports clubs so everyone involved in the child’s care is aligned.
Emotional Wellbeing and Social Inclusion
Children with heart conditions often feel left out when told to “sit on the sidelines.” This emotional impact can be just as significant as the physical. When safe participation is encouraged, it boosts self-esteem, builds resilience, and improves long-term health.
By working with pediatric cardiologists, teachers, and coaches, families can create a supportive environment where the child feels capable—not limited.
Supporting Families Across the UAE
At KidsHeart, our pediatric cardiology clinics in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain offer comprehensive assessments tailored to your child’s unique condition and lifestyle. Our stress testing service helps measure cardiac performance during exercise, and our personalized care plans give families peace of mind.
If your child has a diagnosed heart condition—or if you’re just looking for reassurance before joining a sports team—our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
to speak with a pediatric cardiologist about sports safety, school clearance, or fitness planning.