Riyadh 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games Begin In 100 Days

Photo: SPA

The city of Riyadh is buzzing with excitement and pride as it counts down to hosting the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, one of the biggest sports events among Islamic countries. A special press conference was held by the local organizing committee on Wednesday to officially mark the 100-day countdown to the event, which will take place from November 7 to November 21, 2025.

This grand international event will welcome more than 3,000 athletes from 57 countries, all gathering in Riyadh to showcase their talents and represent their nations in a spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

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What Are the Islamic Solidarity Games?

The Islamic Solidarity Games are a multi-sport international competition held for member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). These games promote unity, friendship, and peace among Muslim-majority nations through sports.

Saudi Arabia has a special connection to the Games, having hosted the first edition in 2005, which was held in Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and Taif. Now, after two decades, the Kingdom is once again stepping into the spotlight with what is expected to be the largest and most important edition in the history of the event.

Four Iconic Venues in Riyadh

To handle the massive scale of the event, the games will be held across four major venues in Riyadh:

1. The Boulevard – a modern entertainment and cultural hub that will also serve as a gathering place for fans and athletes.

2. Prince Faisal bin Fahd Olympic Complex – a top-class sports facility known for hosting national and international competitions.

3. Al-Janadriyah Field – a space often associated with cultural events and now being transformed for sports action.

4. Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City – another key venue equipped for high-level competitions.

Each of these locations will be designed and prepared to meet international standards, ensuring athletes can perform their best and fans can enjoy every moment.

A Grand List of Sports Events

One of the most exciting things about the Riyadh 2025 Games is the huge variety of sports that will be featured. This edition will include more than 25 different sports, giving fans many reasons to stay excited throughout the two-week event.

Here’s a list of the sports that athletes will compete in:

• Athletics

• Para Athletics

• 3x3 Basketball

• Boxing

• Camel Racing

• Duathlon

• Equestrian

• Esports

• Fencing

• Futsal

• Handball

• Judo

• Ju-Jitsu

• Karate

• Muay Thai

• Para Powerlifting

• Swimming

• Taekwondo

• Table Tennis

• Volleyball

• Weightlifting

• Wrestling

• Wushu

This mix of traditional and modern sports shows the diversity and evolution of athletics in the Islamic world. Esports, camel racing, and para sports such as para athletics and para powerlifting bring a fresh and inclusive approach to the games.

Focus on Inclusion and Innovation

Riyadh 2025 will also place a strong focus on inclusiveness and technological progress. Events like para athletics and para powerlifting are especially meaningful because they ensure that athletes with disabilities are given a fair chance to compete on a global stage.

The inclusion of esports reflects how younger generations are engaging with competitive gaming, and this shows the Games’ willingness to grow with modern times. Hosting camel racing, a sport rooted in Arabic tradition, honors the culture and history of the region, making this edition a beautiful blend of old and new.

A Celebration of Culture and Unity

Beyond sports, the Islamic Solidarity Games are a platform for celebrating cultures, building friendships, and sharing values. Riyadh is expected to welcome thousands of athletes, coaches, staff, and fans from 57 countries, turning the city into a global village.

Visitors will also experience Saudi Arabian hospitality, heritage, and innovation, as the country continues to position itself as a key player in international sports and tourism. Cultural shows, food festivals, and interactive exhibitions will also be held alongside the sports events to keep everyone engaged.

Riyadh’s Preparations in Full Swing

Organizing an event of this size takes years of preparation. The local organizing committee has been working day and night to ensure everything is ready. The press conference revealed that most venues are almost ready, while ticketing, accommodation, and security systems are being fine-tuned.

Officials stated that volunteers will play a big role in helping international visitors feel welcomed and supported during the games. Training programs for volunteers, transportation teams, medical staff, and media coverage crews are already underway.

Boosting Saudi Arabia’s Global Image

Riyadh 2025 is more than just a sports competition. It is a chance for Saudi Arabia to showcase its transformation under its Vision 2030 program, which aims to reduce the country’s dependence on oil and increase investments in areas like tourism, sports, and entertainment.

By hosting a global event like the Islamic Solidarity Games, the Kingdom shows the world its ability to organize, innovate, and lead. It also encourages young people in the country to dream bigger and pursue sports as a career.

What’s Next?

With only 100 days left, the countdown to Riyadh 2025 has officially begun. Excitement is growing in the city and across the region. Banners and billboards are being placed all around, and promotional campaigns are reaching millions through television and social media.

This edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games promises to be a celebration of athleticism, culture, diversity, and peace. As November approaches, all eyes will be on Riyadh to deliver a historic, memorable, and world-class event.

Riyadh 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable sporting festival. With thousands of athletes, dozens of sports, and global attention, the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games is not just about medals—it's about unity, tradition, and hope for a brighter future through sports.