AMEINAH AL ZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Traditional Emirati sports are taking centre stage at the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, serving as a meaningful expression of the nation’s identity and history.
Rather than just being side events, these heritage sports act as a bridge between generations, offering athletes and visitors a genuine look into the UAE’s customs while encouraging a shared global connection through sport.
Abdullah Al Wahibi, Director of the Sports Event Planning Office, highlights the deep significance of these activities. Regarding the inclusion of falconry, he said: “One of the oldest and most prestigious traditional sports in the UAE is falconry. It displays a strong connection between humans and nature and is an authentic kind of hunting with trained falcons that has been practised for generations. The sport upholds the long-standing bond between the community and its falcons across generations and is still a potent symbol of Emirati heritage.”
The desert landscape comes alive at Al Wathba circuit with camel racing, a cornerstone of Bedouin culture. These races bring together competitors to honour the resilience and determination that defined life in the desert for centuries.
The UAE’s seafaring roots are also on display through traditional dhow sailing. For generations, the sea has been the lifeblood of coastal communities, providing a means of trade and survival. By holding sailing competitions at various maritime venues, the Games blend the excitement of contemporary racing with the authenticity of the UAE’s naval history, highlighting the country’s role as a historic crossroads of the world.
Endurance horse racing further enriches the schedule, celebrating the horsemanship and stamina that are deeply woven into the local culture. These long-distance desert races honour the partnership between rider and horse, reviving an equestrian lifestyle that was once a fundamental part of daily life in the UAE.
Adding a sense of community fun, the traditional game of Al Taba has been included as an official event. Similar in spirit to baseball or cricket, Al Taba was historically played during social gatherings and festivals. Its presence in the Games reflects a commitment to preserving the simple, social pastimes that have long brought Emirati communities together.
“It is not an accident that Emirati heritage sports will be featured at the Masters Games,” said Al Wahibi. “Rather, it is the outcome of a deliberate plan to conserve heritage and showcase it to a worldwide audience. Through these sports, we demonstrate that our cultural identity is an active component of the global sporting experience. Heritage is not just a history we remember; it is a living spirit we share with the world.”