Abu Dhabi To Host Open Masters Games With 25,000 Athletes

Abu Dhabi is set to host the Open Masters Games from 6th to 15th February 2026. The event will see more than 25,000 athletes from over 100 countries compete in 37 different sports.

The Open Masters Games is organised by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA) and is the largest global multi-sport event focused on community participation. Held every four years, it attracts tens of thousands of participants in each edition.

About the International Masters Games Association

IMGA was founded in 1985 and is recognised by the International Olympic Committee as the representative body for Masters sport worldwide. The organisation promotes the Olympic values and the philosophy of “sport for all.”

IMGA has organised hundreds of thousands of participants through the World Masters Games, Winter World Masters Games, and regional Masters Games, now rebranded as Open Masters Games.

Vision of Abu Dhabi 2026

The Abu Dhabi 2026 Games aim to encourage all members of society to participate in sports. The organisers want to promote vitality, activity, and healthy lifestyles among people of all ages while showcasing the UAE as a global destination for major sporting events.

Competitions will be held across more than 20 venues in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. Adults aged 30 years and above (25 years and above for swimming) can participate, reflecting the philosophy of “sport for life” and “sport for all.”

Focus on Community and Senior Citizens

Aref Al Awani, Secretary-General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, explained that the Games will expand participation across generations. The event supports the UAE’s vision to host diverse community sporting events and create a lasting legacy for sports in the country.

By including senior citizens and residents from all backgrounds, the Games aim to strengthen community engagement and encourage a lifelong commitment to physical activity.

Confidence from IMGA Officials

Jens Holm, CEO of IMGA, expressed confidence in Abu Dhabi’s ability to host a successful edition. He highlighted the emirate’s world-class infrastructure and capabilities for international events.

The organisers project over 140,000 hotel nights, more than 5 billion social media impressions, and sponsorships exceeding AED 165 million.

Popular Sports and Participation Numbers

Football is expected to be the most popular sport, with 14,000 participants. Volleyball will feature 2,160 athletes, and seven-a-side football will include 2,000 competitors. Athletics and cycling are expected to each draw 1,500 athletes, while swimming, triathlon, and endurance horse racing will have 1,000 participants each.

Martial arts will also feature, with jiu-jitsu attracting 1,200 participants, karate 300, taekwondo 300, and judo 300. Other sports include tennis (250), table tennis (760), badminton (850), and padel (500).

Traditional Emirati Sports

The Games will highlight Emirati culture through traditional sports. Camel racing will feature 300 participants, falconry 250, and traditional dhow sailing 1,500. These events aim to preserve heritage while offering international participants a cultural experience.

The inclusion of traditional sports ensures that the Games celebrate local culture alongside global sporting competitions.

Legacy and Impact

Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will leave a lasting legacy for sport in the UAE. By encouraging mass participation across all age groups, the Games aim to strengthen community health, enhance social engagement, and promote Abu Dhabi as a hub for world-class sporting events.

The Games will also provide opportunities for tourism, business, and international collaboration in sports, supporting the UAE’s goal of being a global destination for elite and community sporting events.