The UAE Games 2026, organised by Special Olympics UAE, will be held in June and will bring together more than 1,000 participants across the country. The event focuses on promoting inclusion in sports for People of Determination.

The games will begin with Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics competitions in partnership with Wellfit Gymnastics Academy at Circle Mall, Dubai. The events will then continue at ADNEC Abu Dhabi and Zayed Sports City – Khalifa International Bowling Center.

More than 1,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, students of determination, unified partners, coaches, technical staff, and officials are expected to take part. International teams from Special Olympics Morocco and Special Olympics Malta will also participate in selected sports.

The sports programme includes men’s basketball, 3x3 women’s basketball, 7-a-side football, badminton, powerlifting, bocce, and bowling. It also features the Motor Activity Training Program, showing the growing range of inclusive sports in the UAE.

The UAE Games 2026 are supported by key partners including ADNEC Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Maritime, Aldar Properties, ADNOC, the Ministry of Sports, the National Olympic Committee, and Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa. Several sports federations, clubs, and academies are also involved.

As part of the event, Special Olympics UAE will host a Partners Platform Day. This will bring organisations together, recognise partners, and include the signing of cooperation agreements to strengthen future collaboration.

His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, said the success of the games reflects strong cooperation between public and private sectors. He added that the event continues to support the empowerment of People of Determination and their role in society.

The UAE Games are held every two years. The 2024 edition in Abu Dhabi saw more than 600 athletes competing in six sports, supported by hundreds of officials and thousands of volunteer hours.

The 2026 edition will also include initiatives such as the Golisano Health Leadership Awards, Young Athletes Program, esports activities, Games of the Future, and the Fit 5 fitness programme.

The UAE Games 2026 continue to strengthen inclusion in sports and highlight the country’s commitment to empowering People of Determination as active members of society.