Today's Edition
ASILA AL BADI (ABU DHABI)
Inclusivity is a core focus at the upcoming Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, with more than a dozen sports set for people of determination, organisers announced on Wednesday.
Of the 38 sports lined up for the Games, 13 are for people of determination, officials said during a media briefing that outlined the event’s framework, priorities and long-term legacy goals.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, the event underscores the UAE’s commitment to expanding access to sport, enhancing community wellbeing and reinforcing its position as a global hub for major sporting events. It will run from February 6 to 15 across more than 20 indoor and outdoor venues.
An evolution of the traditional Masters Games model, Open Masters Games removes qualification barriers, welcoming athletes aged 30 and above of all abilities, skill levels and backgrounds. The event is supported by the International Masters Games Association and recognised by the International Olympic Committee.
The Masters Games is the world’s largest international multi-sport event, held every four years and bringing together athletes of all abilities to compete while celebrating lifelong participation and sporting excellence.
For the first time in the event’s history, a host nation will incorporate its traditional sports into the official competition programme. Six Emirati heritage sports — camel racing, dhow sailing, falconry, endurance horse racing, Al Tabba and diving — will be held at the 2026 edition.
Showcasing Emirati sporting traditions on the Masters stage represents a landmark initiative that unites high-performance sport, cultural identity and international exposure, creating a distinctive and immersive experience for visiting athletes. The move reflects the UAE’s efforts to preserve national heritage while fostering cultural exchange.
Advancing National Priorities
Beyond competition, the Open Masters Games is designed to support national priorities across five key areas: health, social inclusion, economic growth, sports development and legacy.
From a health perspective, the Games promote physical activity among older adults, aligning with national strategies to encourage healthy ageing and reduce lifestyle-related diseases.
From a health perspective, the Games encourage physical activity among older adults and align with national efforts to promote healthy ageing and reduce diseases.
Socially, in addition to providing inclusive opportunities for people of determination, the Games foster intergenerational participation, bringing together athletes ranging from their 30s to their 70s and beyond.
Organisers also anticipate significant economic benefits across tourism, hospitality, transport and local supply chains, driven by strong international participation, which is expected to exceed 40%.
The legacy dimension centres on increasing long-term engagement in sport, strengthening community health outcomes, and further positioning the UAE as a leading global destination for major sporting events.
