Abu Dhabi is getting ready to host the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. This marks a landmark moment, as the emirate is positioning itself as a host of the largest and most inclusive multi-sport event. Yes, a big moment in the international sporting calendar, it has been regarded as the largest and the most inclusive multi-sport event, which has ever been staged in the Middle East and here’s all you need to know.
Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 Begins In February
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 begins on February 6th and will continue until February 15th. This will be hosted across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. Over 25,000 athletes who represent 92 nationalities are expected to participate. Not only this, but it is also being anticipated that the spectator numbers can exceed 500,000! As revealed in a report of the Gulf News, the inaugural edition of the event represents a significant evolution of the traditional World Masters Games model.
An Event Featuring 38 Sports
Yes, the inaugural event expands participation to athletes of all abilities and backgrounds. In other words, there are no qualification barriers! Featuring 38 sports, which include six traditional Emirati Sports and 13 sports for People of Determination, the programme is as inclusive as it gets. The competition will be staged across 18 indoor and 20 outdoor world-class facilities. These are supported by 7,200 volunteers with more than 30 local and international partners.
Key Venues Where This Will Be Hosted
It should be noted that the event will be staged across multiple cities and world-class venues. The key venues where the games will be hosted are as follows:
- Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
- Zayed Sports City
- Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub
- Hudayriyat Island
- ADNEC
- Khalifa International Bowling Centre
- Al Mirfa
- Al Wathba Race Track
- Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club
- Al Falah Falconry Club
- Al Ain Equestrian
- Shooting & Golf Club
- Abu Dhabi Golf Club
- Yas Acres Golf Club
- Yas Links Golf Club
- Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club
- Mubadala Arena
- Space 42
- Al Ain Adventure
- Abu Dhabi Padel Kingdom
- The Club
- Abu Dhabi Aquatics Club
- Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Academy
Also Read: What Is Camel Passport Launched Recently By Saudi Arabia?
A List Of Programmes
The games demonstrate the emirate’s capacity to deliver major global sporting events. This is being done while integrating culture, community, and quality of life into an overall experience. The emirate of Abu Dhabi is hosting the games to support national priorities. Yes, these are across five key pillars of health, society, sport, economy, and legacy.
Talking with the programmes, it’s quite diverse and includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Archery
- Karate
- Muay Thai
- Netball
- Obstacle Course Racing
- Orienteering
- Padel
- Rugby
- Sailing
- Shooting
- Squash
- Swimming
- Table Tennis
- Tennis
- Triathlon
- Volleyball
- Weightlifting
- Beach Wrestling
There are even traditional Emirati sports that will be showcased, which include:
- Al Tabba
- Camel Racing
- Dhow Sailing
- Endurance Horse Racing
- Diving
- Falconry
So, with these details laid out for you, don’t forget to mark your calendars and drop by!
Cover Image Courtesy: Instagram/omgad2026 Canva Pro/Matt_Brown from Getty Images Signature
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