Abu dhabi: Special Olympics UAE has announced the completion of preparations for the UAE Games 2026, scheduled from June 6th to 10th in Abu Dhabi. The event will see participation from over 1,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with international delegations.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Games are bolstered by a network of strategic and official partners and will include a comprehensive programme featuring sports competitions, health initiatives, and community events. This second edition will debut a new visual identity inspired by the UAE flag, emphasizing national character and the success of the previous event.
The UAE Games 2026 will commence with Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics competitions on June 3rd at Wellfit – Circle Mall in Dubai. International delegations are expected to arrive in Abu Dhabi on June 5th to engage in host city activities. On June 6th, technical meetings for various sports will take place, including basketball, bocce, and esports, alongside preparatory sessions for the Healthy Athletes® programme.
Official competitions will kick off on June 7th, with divisioning sessions across all sports. The Opening Ceremony will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), accompanied by a Family Recognition Ceremony acknowledging families’ support for the athletes.
The Healthy Athletes® programme will also start on June 6th at ADNEC, offering health screenings and promoting awareness and prevention. Competitions will continue on June 8th, featuring the Fit 5 fitness programme in collaboration with Active Abu Dhabi, aimed at athletes with lower physical abilities.
The UAE Games 2026 are supported by strategic partners such as ADNOC and Aldar, with logistics support from entities like NEDAA and Wellfit – Circle Mall. On June 8th, supporting entities will be acknowledged, and collaboration agreements will be signed to expand partnerships and strengthen sports collaboration for People of Determination.
Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, remarked on the Games’ significance in developing sports for People of Determination in the UAE and the growth of partnerships supporting this mission. He emphasized the event’s role in promoting inclusion and empowering athletes.
On June 9th, the Games will introduce the Motor Activity Training Programme (MATP) and a bocce competition for members of government centers, promoting inclusion across all Emirates. Majlis sessions will bring together stakeholders to discuss topics related to inclusion and empowerment, underscoring youth’s role in driving the inclusion movement.
The UAE Games continue to build on the success of their inaugural edition, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to community inclusion and the empowerment of People of Determination.