What To Know
- The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents a milestone for masters sports in the region, as the first major multi-sport masters games ever held in West Asia.
- Setting another regional precedent, the Games feature 13 dedicated para-sports categories, making it the first masters event in West Asia to offer such extensive inclusion for people of determination.
- Events are taking place across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, turning the emirate into a hub of athletic competition and cultural exchange.
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, also known as the Abu Dhabi Masters 2026, has officially begun, marking West Asia’s largest-ever mass participation multi-sport event for athletes aged 30 and above.
The 10-day international sporting celebration opened with a sold-out opening ceremony at Zayed Sports City Stadium and has attracted more than 25,000 competitors from over 92 nationalities. Events are taking place across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, turning the emirate into a hub of athletic competition and cultural exchange.
A First-of-Its-Kind Masters Event in West Asia
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 represents a milestone for masters sports in the region, as the first major multi-sport masters games ever held in West Asia. Unlike traditional World Masters Games that require qualification standards, this edition adopts a fully inclusive “Open” format, welcoming participants aged 30 and above regardless of experience, skill level, or sporting background.
This approach has significantly broadened participation, positioning the Games as one of the most accessible international sporting events ever staged in the region.
Para-Sports, Women’s Categories, and Emirati Heritage Sports
Setting another regional precedent, the Games feature 13 dedicated para-sports categories, making it the first masters event in West Asia to offer such extensive inclusion for people of determination.
The competition programme also blends global sport with local culture, incorporating six traditional Emirati heritage sports alongside Olympic-style disciplines. These include camel racing, falconry, dhow sailing, endurance horse racing, Al Tabaa, and traditional diving, creating a distinctive fusion of international competition and Emirati tradition.
Women-only categories play a prominent role across sports such as athletics, volleyball, basketball, padel, and 7-a-side football, reinforcing the Games’ commitment to inclusivity and participation at every level.
Competition Schedule and Key Venues
Competition began on February 7, with 20 sports launching on Day 1. The full programme runs through February 14, followed by a farewell ceremony on February 15 at Hudayriat Island.
In total, the Games feature 38 sporting disciplines, including chess, athletics, badminton, triathlon, cricket, and a wide range of para-sports and heritage events.
Key venues hosting competitions include:
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Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
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Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub
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Al Wathba Race Track
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Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Academy
Community Impact and Economic Boost
More than 7,200 volunteers are supporting the delivery of the Games, while organisers expect up to 500,000 spectators to attend events throughout the 10-day schedule.
Beyond competition, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 aims to leave a lasting community legacy, delivering over 255 engagement initiatives that are expected to reach more than 60,000 people. The event is also anticipated to generate significant economic benefits for the emirate, supporting hotels, restaurants, transport services, and sporting facilities.
Cover Image: Abu Dhabi Media Office/Website
