Sheikh Hamdan Attends Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, Showcasing UAE’s Vision for Sport and Inclusion
DUBAI, 9th February, 2026 – H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, attended the ongoing Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), which continues until 15th February.
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan toured several competition venues, reviewing the wide array of sports and associated activities at the Games. The event highlights strong community participation and sporting diversity, reflecting the concept of “sport for all” and promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum commended the exceptional organisation of the event, noting its importance in enhancing the UAE’s position as a global destination for major sporting events. He emphasised that such championships play a key role in strengthening social cohesion, promoting sport as part of everyday life, and supporting national quality of life priorities. He said, “Hosting the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 reflects the UAE’s vision for community sport and its commitment to providing an inclusive environment that encourages participation across different ages and cultures.”
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 stands as one of the region’s largest multi-sport community events, welcoming over 25,000 athletes from more than 92 nationalities. Participants compete in 38 different sports, including disciplines that are tailored for People of Determination, making the Games an inclusive sporting experience that mirrors the UAE’s cultural diversity and openness.
The competition features a broad array of sports, ranging from athletics, basketball, cricket, cycling, football, golf, ice hockey, judo, jiu-jitsu, swimming, tennis, triathlon, volleyball, weightlifting, and beach wrestling, to several traditional sports such as camel racing, traditional sailing, diving, endurance riding, and falconry.
Supported by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), a non-profit international organisation recognised by the International Olympic Committee, the event is staged across top-tier sports facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. The Games enjoy strong public attendance, with the backing of thousands of volunteers and direct supervision by IMGA, all of which reinforce the event’s global mission of encouraging a vibrant sports culture and enhancing the quality of life.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
