Abu Dhabi Builds Excitement for Open Masters Games 2026 with Inspiring Community Run
Momentum for the much-anticipated Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 continued to build this week as runners of all ages and backgrounds gathered at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) for a spirited community event. Hosted in conjunction with the Abu Dhabi Summer Sports festival, and organised in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the run brought together a diverse group of participants to celebrate fitness, movement, and community spirit.
Competitors laced up for 1km, 3km, and 5km races in a fully air-conditioned indoor arena, ensuring comfort for everyone from first-time joggers to seasoned athletes. The event stood as a vibrant testament to active living and generated growing anticipation for the region’s first-ever Open Masters Games.
Quoting Sheikh Hamdan bin Sultan Al Nahyan: “The energy at ADNEC was truly inspiring. This community-run perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 – bringing people together through sport, promoting healthy lifestyles, and building anticipation for what will be a landmark event for the UAE. Our participation in Abu Dhabi Summer Sports has been instrumental in connecting with the community and sharing our vision for a healthier and more active future.”
With less than 200 days remaining until the opening ceremony, excitement is mounting for what is set to be the largest and most diverse international sports event ever held in the Middle East. The Games are scheduled for 6-15 February 2026, spanning more than 20 venues and featuring over 25,000 participants competing across 33 sports. Among these will be four traditional sports, designed to pay tribute to the UAE’s rich heritage.
The Open Masters Games will be open to everyone aged 30 or older. It aims to establish a platform for social connection, healthy living, and excellence that crosses generations and nationalities. With over 100 nationalities expected, the event will promote multiculturalism, intergenerational dialogue, diversity, and improved longevity, particularly among the older generation.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
