The capital city of Abu Dhabi has officially lit the ceremonial cauldron to kick off the UAE Games 2026. Organised by Special Olympics UAE, this premier national event marks its second edition by significantly expanding its scope, celebrating the athletic determination, resilience, and societal inclusion of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
A Spectacular Opening Ceremony at ADNEC
The official opening ceremony took place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, featuring a vibrant parade of athletes, live musical acts—including a performance by the Abu Dhabi Police Band—and the traditional lighting of the cauldron. Running until June 10, the games have united more than 1,000 athletes from various sports clubs and centers across the Emirates, alongside prominent international delegations such as Special Olympics Morocco and Special Olympics Malta.
Expanded Sports and Innovative Programs
The 2026 sports itinerary spans multiple athletic disciplines including Men's and Women's Basketball, 7-a-Side Football, Powerlifting, Badminton, Bocce, and Bowling. Notably, the event scales up its community reach with several new and specialized initiatives:
The Motor Activity Training Program (MATP): Introduced for the first time this year, this unique program is carefully tailored to support athletes with severe physical and higher support needs.
Healthy Athletes® Initiative: Spanning three days at ADNEC, this crucial program delivers free, specialized healthcare screenings, dental checks, and wellness education to all participants, managed by hundreds of professional healthcare volunteers.
Esports & Games of the Future: Embracing modern trends, the tournament also hosts inclusive gaming experiences alongside the grassroots Young Athletes Program.
A Milestone for National Inclusion
"The UAE Games 2026 represent an important milestone in the continued development of sports for People of Determination," stated Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE. The growing network of elite national partners—led by ADNOC and Aldar—reflects a unified, institutional commitment to empowering these remarkable athletes and cementing their essential role in the nation's cultural and sporting future.