Al Mehairi will be one of the five shooters representing the United Arab Emirates at the Shooting Para Sport competitions at the Châteauroux Shooting Centre, a well-known venue located on the outskirts of Paris. The accomplished athlete, who has won four international medals, is determined to make a significant impact.

As a mother of five children, Al Mehairi has set her goal to perform well in these Olympics. "I hope to finish in the top eight of my competition in Paris." Reflecting on her experience at Tokyo 2020, she emphasised that her main goals were to gain experience and learn to manage her emotions and breathing during competitions.

“I qualified for Tokyo 2020 just six months after starting my journey in Shooting Para Sport. So, I went to Tokyo with not many expectations,” said the 48-year-old shooter, who earned both her Paralympic qualifications in Peru. She secured the quota for Paris at the Lima 2023 World Championships last year.

The athlete began her journey as a Boccia player in 2008, but eleven years later she decided to try shooting. “The transition was very smooth, as I liked shooting from the first moment. Additionally, the great thing about this sport is that you can always challenge yourself. I feel it’s in my blood. Holding the rifle brings me happiness,” she said.

Over the past five years, she has earned a gold, two silvers, and one bronze in international events, including World Cups in France and the UAE. Al Mehairi praised the support from her club and the UAE’s focus on individuals with physical impairments, noting increased awareness and support for Para athletes due to digital media and government initiatives.

“There is more awareness about the challenges we face, thanks to digital media and media reports. In the UAE, there has also been significant support and platforms offered by the government and organisations, which is helping more Para athletes to pursue sports, develop as athletes, and achieve their dreams,” she said.

She further highlighted the improvements in accessibility, including transport, venues, coaches, and support staff knowledgeable about dealing with people with impairments. “There is a lot of support for this group of people to develop in various sections of society,” she added.

Al Mehairi concluded by sharing her strategy for achieving her aspirations. “I believe we must understand our steps to reach our goals. I have a schedule in a book to help me achieve my objectives,” she said, as she makes her final preparations for Paris 2024 in Turkey.