A Closer Look: Inside the UAE Swat Challenge

In A Closer Look, The National provides an in-depth take on one of the main stories of the week

The UAE Swat Challenge has once again brought some of the world's top special forces to Dubai, to crown this year's team of champions.

From sharp-shooting to endurance obstacle courses, the five-day competition thoroughly tests the physical and mental capabilities of challengers.

This week, host Sarah Forster hears from The National's Salam Al Amir on notable moments from this year's participants as well as how the event has changed over the years.

Read more

UAE's all-women Swat teams aim for top honours

UAE Swat Challenge: Chilean crime-fighters facing car chases and explosions head on

UAE Swat Challenge – in pictures

Leading the Dubai women's team at the UAE Swat Challenge this year is 2nd Lt Afra Hareb Al Nuaimi, 27. Leslie Pableo for The National

The Abu Dhabi Police women’s team at the UAE Swat Challenge, held at Dubai Police training centre, in Al Ruwayyah. Pawan Singh/ The National

The Abu Dhabi women’s team is taking part in the Challenge for the first time. Pawan Singh/ The National

The Abu Dhabi Police women’s team take on an obstacle course. Pawan Singh/ The National

Lobna Elhalawani is the fitness trainer of the Abu Dhabi Police women’s team. Pawan Singh/ The National

The Abu Dhabi Police women’s team had three months of extensive training before the Challenge. Pawan Singh/ The National

The Abu Dhabi Police women’s team hope to inspire more female police officers. Pawan Singh/ The National

The Abu Dhabi Police women’s team say they are determined in their quest to win the Challenge. Pawan Singh/ The National