Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 Opens with Grand Ceremony

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, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the opening ceremony of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026.

During the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed highlighted that hosting the Open Masters Games reflects the UAE’s strategic vision of using sport as a key tool for national development. He said the event supports preventive health, encourages active lifestyles, and promotes sport as a lifelong habit for individuals and families.

He also stated that Abu Dhabi hosting such a large international event shows the emirate’s growing position as a global destination for major sporting events, supported by world-class infrastructure and strong organisational capabilities.

Sergii Bubka, President of the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), called the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 a historic moment, as it is the first Masters Games ever held in the Middle East. He said the Games send a strong global message that sport has no age limit, and praised Abu Dhabi for creating an inspiring environment for athletes from around the world.

The opening ceremony included a special artistic performance inspired by Emirati heritage. The performance symbolically showed the athlete’s journey through different stages of life, focusing on discipline, challenge, commitment, belonging, and purpose. It also highlighted the official slogan of the event: “United by Sports, Active for Life.”

The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 has welcomed more than 25,000 athletes from over 90 countries, competing in more than 35 sports, including six traditional Emirati disciplines. The competitions will continue until 15 February, with athletes aged 30 and above taking part. The main competition dates are from 7 to 14 February 2026.

The event also includes traditional sports, women’s categories, and community competitions. These elements support the goals of the UAE’s Year of the Family, encouraging participation across all age groups and strengthening family bonds through sport.

Competitions are being held across modern sports venues in Abu Dhabi, the Al Ain Region, and the Al Dhafra Region, following international standards. The multi-location venue plan supports Abu Dhabi’s wider goal of building a sustainable and integrated sports ecosystem across the emirate.