Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 has brought together more than 25,000 athletes from over 92 nationalities, competing across 38 sports, including six traditional disciplines and 13 events for People of Determination.
The organising committee expects more than 500,000 spectators during the Games, which are being staged across 38 venues in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. The programme is supported by more than 7,200 volunteers, with competitions running until February 15 and the main events taking place from February 7 to 14.
Athletes aged 30 and above are eligible to compete, with the Games held under the auspices of the International Masters Games Association. The main purpose, the organisers have said in the build-up, is to foster the sporting spirit in communities and families. It is also evident on the ground as participants spoke to Aletihad.
Running athlete Abdulla Al Blooshi, who is competing in the 5km run, obstacle course racing and lawn tennis, said, "The event is very different from all other sporting events. While this one is really unique because it is for the community. Any member from the community, non-athletes, they can participate as long as they are 30 years old plus."
"If you are 30 years old plus, you either get motivated by a son or a daughter to take part. The whole family is there supporting a family member.”
Describing the Games as "a world-class community event that will raise the bar and create much more awareness", Al Blooshi also encouraged residents to attend, saying, "If you did not sign up, it's okay. Come at least watch the games, get inspired and see athletes from all over the world."
Chess participant Sarah Lu said the Games had also provided a chance to reconnect with old friends. "This is our first time here. I came with my friend from China, and I'm from America. We were friends from a young age, and we were in the national chess team before."
"Everything is very nice in here. We are not just playing chess, we are also playing badminton. The whole place represents what we need," she added, describing the atmosphere as "not really like a very intensive competition. It is quite relaxed and fun, like a community, different from the normal competition."
Track athlete Maram Al Zu'bi, who is taking part in the 800m and 200m races, said, "There are categories for all ages and the organisation is nice. It gives an opportunity for girls and seniors. It is a beautiful thing, honestly, and a global thing."
Adding his two cents, weightlifter Ibrahim Al Shamsi described it as "an opportunity for every player to participate, test himself, see his experience, and get to know new people from outside the country," adding that the exposure has put him in good standing.
Discovering new frontiers is also the main reason for someone like May Tay, a volleyball player. "All of us have not been to Abu Dhabi before, so we really want to see what the country is like. Abu Dhabi is so pretty. Everything is so nice, so special, so clean," she said while praising the organisers as well.
"The people here are very friendly. There are so many volunteers. They really have the passion to make this event a success."
Representing India in the men's 30+ volleyball category, Sagar Solanki said, "It is very incredible. The way they have arranged everything, it is fantastic. They are giving very good service to every single person, even the family and the supporters," he said.
Passive participants echoed similar sentiments. Rahana Fathima appreciated the wide demographic representation. "It involves every age category. That is the best part," adding, "Community building is the best part in this."
Hana El Arabi said she attended after seeing promotions around the city. "I saw the advertisements on the roads and on social media, and I wanted to see the place and visit it with my daughters," she said.
