More than 1,000 athletes expected to participate from across the UAE and beyond

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates –April 20, 2026: Special Olympics UAE has announced the UAE Games 2026, set to take place in Abu Dhabi in June, marking the second edition of the Games and featuring international delegations for the first time.

The program will open with Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics competitions on 3 June, held in collaboration with Wellfit Gymnastics Academy at Circle Mall, Dubai. The official UAE Games will then take place from 6 to 10 June, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (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 supervisory teams from across the UAE are expected to participate. The UAE Games 2026 will feature international participation, with delegations from Special Olympics Morocco competing in 7-a-side football and Special Olympics Malta taking part in bocce and bowling.

The sports program includes a range of disciplines, including men’s basketball, 3×3 women’s basketball, 7-a-side football, badminton, powerlifting, bocce, and bowling, in addition to the Motor Activity Training Program (MATP), reflecting the continued expansion of the Games and the diversity of sports offered.

Reflecting the strength of national collaboration in supporting and empowering People of Determination, the UAE Games 2026 are supported by a number of strategic partners. These include the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC Abu Dhabi), Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Maritime, Aldar Properties, ADNOC, Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa, the Ministry of Sports, and the National Olympic Committee, in addition to several sports federations, clubs, and academies.

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