NBA star Kobe Bryant hopes to inspire healthy living in the UAE

NBA star Kobe Bryant touched down in Dubai on Wednesday ahead of his two-day event to promote diabetes awareness.

Bryant, 35, hopes to inspire youth on being healthy and staying fit and will be coaching a basketball clinic for students in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.

"We're having a hard time championing the cause of being active. This is why I'm here to promote healthy living," he told Yahoo Maktoob.

And what does he think of the UAE?

"It's my first time here and a lot of people have been trying to tell me about it but I refused to listen to them because I wanted to enjoy it."

The LA Lakers star, who has been playing in the NBA for 17 years, is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury and is confident he will be fit for next season.

"It's going well and I'm feeling really good and strong. This season when I come back I'll be ready," he said.

How does he stay active? Jogging, he says, and having a positive attitude.

"It is about consistency and inner determination," he said. "We all inevitably get hit with obstacles and have self doubts. Those are the moments you have to be more determined."

The Kobe Bryant Health & Fitness Weekend comprises activities spread over September 26 and 27. The highlight of the weekend is a basketball game in which a Bryant’s celebrity team will take on the Real Madrid basketball legends. The match is being held at the American University of Dubai on September 27.