Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi welcomes over 25,000 athletes

Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 has officially kicked off, welcoming more than 25,000 athletes from over 90 countries to the UAE's capital city.

The opening ceremony featured an integrated artistic performance inspired by Emirati heritage and the human connection to movement, discipline, and challenge.

Through a symbolic narrative, the performance traced the athlete’s journey across different stages of life, highlighting commitment, belonging, and purpose, while reinforcing the official slogan of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, “United by Sports, Active for Life”, and reflecting the event’s mission to promote sport as a lifelong pursuit for individuals and families.

The games are 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.

The athletes, aged 30 and above, will compete across more than 35 sports, including six traditional Emirati disciplines.

Traditional sports, women’s categories, and community competitions also form a central part of the Games.

Competitions will take place across a range of state-of-the-art sporting venues in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain region, and the Al Dhafra region. 

It's the "first Masters Games held in the Middle East, bringing together athletes from across the world in a shared celebration of sport and active living," highlighted Sergii Bubka, President of IMGA. "These Games reflect a powerful belief that sport enriches our lives. The diversity of participation, including athletes competing across all ages, sends a strong global message that the passion for sport has no limits."

Competitions will run until February 15.