Although it may seem that Dubai just couldn't possibly get any more high-tech or be more futuristic, it looks like that is about to happen.
Dubai's World Federation of Future Sports – yes, that's a thing – plans to organize the first World Future Sports Games in December of 2017.
If you're like us, you're probably wondering, what does that even mean? Let us explain.
The international event will consist of competitions created from modern technology and artificial intelligence.
There will be nine competitions and these will include ...
Driverless car racing ...
Like "Fast and Furious," except without Vin Diesel or any of the other characters ...
Robotic swimming, running and even wrestling!
All the excitement of the Olympics but with robots instead ...
Oh, and robots will be battling it out on the table tennis and football courts as well ...
And may the odds be ever in their favor.
And yes, don't worry, there will definitely be drones.
When in Dubai ...
The initiative comes from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the ruler of Dubai and the vice president of the United Arab Emirates, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the crown prince of Dubai.
"We call upon all the youth to constantly search for new insights and innovations and participate in these competitions to turn these innovations into a global manifestation."
Participants from around the world are invited to form teams to compete in the competitions. According to Arabian Business, Prince Hamdan said that the goal of the games is to draw thousands of researchers and innovators, which will in turn generate billions in economic value.
"Innovation in sports is an important part of building the UAE innovation system and achieving our vision to enhance the advanced status of the UAE in this area at the international level," the prince said.
And with that, Dubai takes another bold step into the future. May the best robot win!
Oh, one more thing ... Can we also suggest a robot dance-off?
