The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is set to be a sporting spectacle like no other. From 6–15 February 2026, more than 25,000 athletes from over 100 countries will gather in the UAE’s capital to compete in 33 sports across 10 action-packed days. Whether you’re planning to participate, volunteer, or just soak up the atmosphere, this guide is your go-to source for all things Masters Games.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The history and spirit of the Masters Games
- Key dates and what’s happening each day
- The full sports line-up – from rugby to rowing
- How to register or get tickets
- Travel tips and where to stay in Abu Dhabi
- Must-see attractions and Emirati culture
- Why this event is about more than just medals
The Open Masters Games is more than a competition – it’s a celebration of community, lifelong fitness, and cultural exchange. Whether you’re 35 or 75, there’s a place for you on the field, in the pool, or in the stands.
Quick overview – what is the Open Masters Games?
The Open Masters Games is a global multi-sport event open to athletes aged 30 years and older (and in some sports, as young as 25). Unlike elite competitions, there are no qualification requirements, no trials, and no need to be a professional. Whether you’re a seasoned former Olympian or someone who simply enjoys staying active, this is a platform to compete, connect, and celebrate sport at any age.
The 2026 edition, hosted in Abu Dhabi, marks a historic first for the Middle East, bringing the Masters movement to the UAE’s vibrant capital. It’s backed by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA) and supported locally by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and major UAE sponsors like ADNOC.
Why it’s special:
- Open to all skill levels – no need to qualify
- Divided by age categories (typically in 5–10 year increments)
- Features 33 sports, from swimming and athletics to sailing and martial arts
- Includes traditional Emirati sports like dhow sailing, camel racing, and falconry
- Welcomes athletes with disabilities in 18 inclusive disciplines
- Offers a chance to meet like-minded people from over 100 nationalities
More than just a sporting event, the Open Masters Games is designed to foster community, celebrate diversity, and promote lifelong wellbeing through sport. Think of it as the Olympics with heart – where the competition is strong, but the friendships are stronger.
When is it on? Key dates for Abu Dhabi 2026
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will run from 6 to 15 February 2026, with ten packed days of competition, culture, and celebration. This isn’t just a weekend event; it’s a full festival of sport designed to keep the energy buzzing from day one to the final medal ceremony.
The opening ceremony is scheduled for 6 February and will take place in Abu Dhabi, marking the official start of the Games. From there, different sports will unfold across multiple venues throughout the emirate, with most competitions taking place between 7–14 February. The closing ceremony is set for 15 February, wrapping up the event in style.
To help visualise how the week unfolds, here’s a simplified timeline of the event:
Abu Dhabi 2026 schedule overview
(Indicative only – full official schedule to be released closer to the event)
| Date | What’s happening |
| 6 Feb (Fri) | Opening Ceremony & Athlete Welcome |
| 7 Feb (Sat) | Competitions Begin (Track & Field, Swimming, Team Sports) |
| 8 Feb (Sun) | Full Competition Day – Multi-Sport |
| 9 Feb (Mon) | Sport & Cultural Programs Ongoing |
| 10 Feb (Tue) | Peak Competition – Endurance & Martial Arts |
| 11 Feb (Wed) | Rest Day for Some Sports / Continued Events |
| 12 Feb (Thu) | Finals in Select Sports |
| 13 Feb (Fri) | Traditional Emirati Sports Showcase |
| 14 Feb (Sat) | Final Competitions / Medal Events |
| 15 Feb (Sun) | Closing Ceremony & Celebration Events |
While some sports, like athletics or swimming, may run across multiple days, others like triathlon or sailing might have just one featured event. Many team sports will hold tournaments that span several days leading to a grand final.
Participants are encouraged to check the sport-specific calendar, which will be released officially later in 2025. This allows competitors to plan travel and even compete in more than one discipline across non-overlapping days.
Where it’s happening – event venues across the UAE
The Open Masters Games 2026 won’t just be limited to one stadium or city block. It’s a UAE-wide celebration of sport, with events spread across some of the country’s most iconic and purpose-built venues. Abu Dhabi is the central host, but neighbouring cities like Al Ain and Dubai are also getting in on the action, giving participants and spectators a chance to experience the Emirates from multiple angles.
Here’s where the action will be taking place:
Abu Dhabi (Main Hub)
- Zayed Sports City Stadium: The beating heart of the Games, this is where you’ll see track and field events, football, and possibly the opening and closing ceremonies. A state-of-the-art venue with decades of hosting experience.
- Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC): Transformed into an indoor arena for combat sports, martial arts, and court-based competitions like badminton and squash.
- Mubadala Arena: One of the top martial arts venues in the world, perfect for jiu-jitsu and karate.
- Hudayriyat Island: Set to host endurance events like triathlon, open-water swimming, and obstacle races with its scenic coastal tracks and cycleways.
- Al Wathba Desert Tracks: The location for the traditional long-distance horse endurance race, set against a true desert backdrop.
Al Ain
- Al Ain Shooting Club: A modern facility for rifle and pistol events.
- Al Ain Equestrian and Golf Club: A likely venue for golf tournaments and equestrian events, offering world-class greens and stables.
Dubai
- The Sevens Stadium: A legendary venue known for the Dubai Rugby Sevens, now confirmed as one of the official sites for rugby and netball competitions. It’s a major inclusion that ties the Games to one of the UAE’s most active sporting cities.
Water & adventure venues
- Al Ain Adventure Park: Home to whitewater rafting and potentially paddle sports like canoeing and kayaking.
- Al Mirfa to Abu Dhabi Route: The stage for the dhow sailing races – a long-distance event that doubles as a celebration of Emirati maritime culture.
From sleek arenas to outdoor desert tracks and coastal swim zones, each venue offers a different slice of the UAE’s sporting capacity. For many, competing in a place like Zayed Sports City or sprinting along the Hudayriyat coast will be as memorable as winning a medal.
The full sports line-up – all 33 sports explained
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is offering one of the most diverse sports programs ever staged in the region. With 33 sports officially on the schedule, the Games bring together Olympic staples, fast-growing global favourites, and even traditional Emirati disciplines. Whether you’re into high-speed, high-skill, or high-endurance events, there’s something to suit every style and fitness level.
Team sports
Expect packed stadiums and serious camaraderie in these crowd-pleasing formats:
- Football (Soccer)
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Netball
- Rugby (Sevens and potentially 15-a-side)
- Cricket
- Futsal
These sports will likely feature round-robin tournaments leading to finals, and are great for participants looking for a blend of fitness and fun with friends.
Individual & endurance sports
If you’re chasing a personal best or love pushing your limits:
- Athletics (Track and Field)
- Road Running
- Triathlon and Duathlon
- Swimming (Pool and Open Water)
- Cycling (Road races and possibly time trials)
- Obstacle Course Racing
Many of these events will be split by age categories and held over multiple days, so athletes can recover and potentially compete in more than one race.
Combat & martial arts
Abu Dhabi has a strong martial arts tradition, and these sports will be among the most intense to watch:
- Judo
- Karate
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Muay Thai
- Kickboxing
- Taekwondo
Expect bouts to take place at venues like Mubadala Arena or ADNEC, featuring competitors from all over the globe.
Racquet & ball sports
From fast volleys to long rallies, these technical sports are always popular in Masters competition:
- Tennis
- Table Tennis
- Badminton
- Squash
- Padel (one of the UAE’s fastest-growing sports)
- Bowling (at Khalifa International Bowling Centre)
These events often draw competitors across a wide age range and are among the easiest for first-time Masters athletes to enter.
Water & adventure sports
Perfect for those who like their sport with a side of scenery:
- Sailing (including traditional dhow sailing)
- Kayaking / Canoeing
- Surfing (depending on final sport confirmation)
- Whitewater Rafting
- Open Water Swimming
Some of these may take place at Al Ain Adventure Park or Abu Dhabi’s beaches and coastal clubs.
Strength & precision events
For those who prefer controlled power or pinpoint accuracy:
- Weightlifting
- Powerlifting (if included)
- Archery
- Shooting (rifle and pistol)
These sports reward technique and training just as much as raw strength.
Traditional Emirati sports
A unique aspect of Abu Dhabi 2026 is its inclusion of culturally significant local sports:
- Camel Racing
- Falconry
- Dhow Sailing
- Horse Endurance Riding
These events showcase the heritage of the Emirates and will be among the most distinct features of this edition of the Games.
Adaptive and inclusive sports
Eighteen of the 33 sports will also include categories for athletes with disabilities, known locally as “People of Determination.” These may include para-swimming, wheelchair basketball, and more, making Abu Dhabi 2026 one of the most inclusive Games yet.
With such a rich and varied program, the Open Masters Games promises something for everyone—athletes, spectators, and culture-seekers alike.
Can anyone join? Who can participate and how
One of the best things about the Open Masters Games is that it’s open to just about anyone. You don’t need to be a former Olympian or national-level athlete. If you’ve got a passion for sport, are over a certain age, and are ready to challenge yourself, you’re eligible.
Who can compete
- Most sports are open to athletes aged 30 and above, with some events (like swimming) allowing entries from 25 years and up.
- Participants are grouped into age brackets, often in 5 or 10-year increments: 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, and so on—some events even extend to the 80+ age group.
- You can compete as an individual or part of a team, and in more than one sport, provided there are no scheduling clashes.
- The event also welcomes People of Determination, with 18 sports offering inclusive or adaptive competition categories.
How to register
- Registration is done online via the official Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 website
- Entry fees vary by sport and may include access to facilities, competition entry, and official apparel
- You’ll need to provide basic medical clearance, ID, and—if required for your sport—evidence of prior experience or safety qualifications.
- Registration opened in 2025 and spots are filling fast, especially in high-demand sports like athletics, swimming, and football.
- There are no qualifying times, no selection committees, and no pre-tournament stress. The Games are about participation, not perfection. It’s a chance to get back in the game—or try something new—with thousands of like-minded people from around the world.
Expected stars & former Olympians to watch
While the Open Masters Games isn’t about elite competition in the traditional sense, it often draws a few familiar faces from the global sporting stage. Expect a fascinating mix of everyday competitors and former champions—some chasing new goals, others just relishing the chance to compete again.
Who you might see in Abu Dhabi
- Retired Olympians and world champions: Masters Games around the world have featured ex-Olympic athletes returning for the love of sport. Abu Dhabi 2026 is likely to be no different, especially in swimming, athletics, and judo—three sports where former pros often enter Masters divisions.
- UAE sporting legends: Local heroes from the UAE’s athletics, jiu-jitsu, and endurance communities may participate or act as ambassadors. Expect to see high-profile support, even if they’re not all in uniform.
- Notable past performers: At other Masters events, competitors like Jamaican sprinter Michael Frater (an Olympic medallist) and multiple-time national swimming champions have participated. If Abu Dhabi draws the same crowd, some age-group events may get very competitive.
- Strong regional contenders: Countries like Australia, Japan, South Africa, and the UK traditionally send large, strong delegations to Masters Games. Many of these athletes hold age-group national or world titles and will be worth keeping an eye on.
Even with stars in the mix, the Games don’t feel like a high-pressure pro tournament. One of the best things about watching the competition is that everyone—regardless of past fame—is competing side by side, often in the same heats or pools. You might be lining up next to a world record holder or sharing a pitch with someone who medalled in the Commonwealth Games.
Athlete lists for each sport will be made available closer to the event, but the spirit of Abu Dhabi 2026 is less about celebrity and more about stories. People running their first 10K at 65. A team of 50-something friends reuniting after decades. A jiu-jitsu competitor overcoming injury to step back on the mat. Those are the moments that tend to steal the spotlight.
What’s new in 2026 compared to 2025?
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 introduces several enhancements and additions compared to previous editions, aiming to provide a more inclusive and culturally rich experience for all participants.
Expanded sports program
The 2026 Games will feature 33 sports, including 29 official disciplines and 4 traditional Emirati sports: camel racing, endurance horse racing, falconry, and dhow sailing. This expansion not only increases the number of events but also integrates cultural heritage into the sporting experience .
Enhanced inclusivity
A significant emphasis has been placed on inclusivity, with 18 sports offering categories for People of Determination. This initiative ensures that athletes of all abilities have the opportunity to compete and showcase their talents on an international stage .
Cultural integration
The inclusion of traditional Emirati sports provides participants and spectators with a unique opportunity to engage with the UAE’s rich cultural heritage. Events like falconry and dhow sailing offer a glimpse into the nation’s historical sporting practices .
Improved participant experience
Participants can expect a seamless experience with features such as fast-track immigration services, dedicated transport systems, and a comprehensive athlete welcome center. These enhancements aim to make the Games more accessible and enjoyable for all attendees .
Community engagement
The 2026 Games are not just about competition; they also focus on community and cultural exchange. With over 25,000 participants from more than 100 countries, the event serves as a platform for fostering international friendships and understanding through sport .
These developments reflect the organizers’ commitment to creating a more inclusive, culturally enriched, and participant-friendly event in 2026.
Tickets, travel & registration – your logistics guide
Getting to the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 and settling in for the event is a straightforward process thanks to dedicated services for athletes, visitors, and supporters. From registering to race, to finding a hotel near your competition venue, here’s what you need to know:
Registration
- The Games are open to everyone aged 30 and over (25+ for some sports).
- Registration is completed online and is currently open. Get started here:
- Fees:
- International participants: approximately $150 USD
- UAE residents and citizens: approximately $75 USD
- Reduced rate for People of Determination and senior citizens (men 60+, women 50+)
- A unique bonus: upon arrival and check-in, 90% of the registration fee will be returned on a prepaid card to use across the UAE—for meals, experiences, or accommodation.
Travel
- Abu Dhabi is serviced by Zayed International Airport, offering direct routes from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
- Dedicated arrival services will be in place to streamline the immigration process for athletes and attendees.
- Meet-and-greet assistance will help international guests navigate customs, baggage, and transport upon arrival.
Accommodation
- A wide range of hotel options are available, from budget-friendly to five-star luxury.
- Official accommodation packages will be tailored for athletes and teams, placing them near competition venues in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai.
- Early booking is recommended, especially near Zayed Sports City and ADNEC where many events will take place.
Transportation
- Participants can expect a reliable transport network connecting venues, hotels, and airports.
- Shuttle services will run between official accommodations and event locations.
- For those exploring independently, taxis and rideshare apps are widely used and affordable.
Additional support
- Travel packages including hotel, transport, and optional excursions will be available through the event’s logistics partners.
- Visa support services will assist with tourist visas where required.
Guided tours and local experiences are planned alongside the Games for athletes and spectators to explore the culture and landscape of the UAE.
With your registration complete and travel booked, you’ll be set to enjoy a world-class sporting experience with all the logistics smoothed out before you arrive.
Where to stay – accommodation tips by venue
With events happening across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and even parts of Dubai, choosing the right place to stay can make a big difference to your experience at the Open Masters Games. Whether you’re a competitor looking for convenience, or a family tagging along for the atmosphere, there’s an option that suits your travel style.
Abu Dhabi – central & coastal
If your events are based around Zayed Sports City, ADNEC, or Hudayriyat Island, staying in Abu Dhabi city is ideal. You’ll find:
- Luxury hotels in areas like Corniche, Al Bateen, and Saadiyat Island, offering resort-style amenities
- Business hotels in Al Nahyan and Al Rawdah – practical and close to major venues
- Budget friendly options scattered across the city, especially near bus lines and shuttle services
For the most convenient access to venues, book near Zayed Sports City or Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street.
Al Ain – for sport and scenery
Al Ain is hosting sports like golf, shooting, and equestrian events. This inland city is known for its greenery and mountain views. Accommodation options here include:
- Family hotels close to Al Ain Zoo and the Equestrian Club
- Desert resorts that offer a relaxing escape from the bustle of the city
- Serviced apartments for longer stays or those travelling in groups
Al Ain is quieter than Abu Dhabi and makes for a great base if your events are concentrated in the eastern region.
Dubai – for rugby and rest days
If you’re competing or spectating at The Sevens Stadium in Dubai, staying nearby can save you long drives. Options include:
- Airport hotels for quick transfers in and out
- Hotels along Sheikh Zayed Road – easy access via major highways
- Villas or Airbnb-style stays for teams or groups wanting space and flexibility
While Dubai is a bit of a drive from Abu Dhabi, many athletes and visitors use it as a rest-day destination or a pre/post-event stopover.
Booking tips
- Book early: Hotels near competition venues will fill up fast, especially in Abu Dhabi
- Check if your sport has an affiliated hotel or transport service
- Consider shuttle access if you’re not planning to drive
- Look for options that include breakfast and laundry services—helpful if you’re competing daily
Whether you prefer a five-star suite, a desert resort, or a hotel right next to the track, the UAE has the infrastructure to accommodate every type of traveller. Prioritise location, amenities, and early booking to lock in the best value.
Things to do around the Games – eat, explore, enjoy
Even if you’re coming to compete, there’s no reason not to treat the Open Masters Games as a mini holiday. With ten days in the UAE, there’s plenty of time to soak in local culture, enjoy great food, and explore some of the country’s most iconic sights between events.
Cultural attractions
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the Middle East’s most impressive landmarks:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – a breathtaking structure of marble domes, intricate mosaics, and serene courtyards. It’s also featured in this roundup of 10 iconic mosques in the MENA region for its stunning architecture and cultural significance.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi – a must-visit for art and history lovers, with exhibitions that span civilisations
- Qasr Al Watan – the Presidential Palace, open to the public and rich in Islamic architecture and calligraphy
- Heritage Village – for a taste of traditional Emirati life and crafts
Many of these are just a short drive from key competition venues, making them ideal for post-race sightseeing.
Dining
You’re in for a treat. Abu Dhabi has a thriving food scene:
- Shawarma stalls and local grills for quick, tasty bites
- Modern Emirati cuisine blending tradition and contemporary flair
- High-end restaurants led by Michelin-starred chefs, perfect for a celebratory meal
- Global eats including Indian, Thai, Italian, Korean, and more
Don’t miss dates and Arabic coffee—local staples often served as a gesture of hospitality.
Beaches & the outdoors
Need a mental reset between events? Hit the coast:
- Corniche Beach – popular and central, with walking tracks and views
- Saadiyat Beach – quieter and pristine, home to turtles and soft white sand
- Hudayriyat Island – combines beaches with cycling tracks, cafes, and outdoor obstacle courses
You can also kayak through mangroves, rent a stand-up paddleboard, or book a sunset cruise.
Quick getaways
If you have a day or two free:
- Al Ain offers desert oases, camel markets, and Jebel Hafeet mountain views
- Dubai is just 90 minutes away, perfect for checking out Burj Khalifa or shopping at the Dubai Mall
- Liwa Desert or Al Dhafra for epic sand dunes and traditional Emirati festivals
The Games may be your main reason for visiting—but the experiences outside the stadium might just be what you remember most.
The legacy of the games – why it’s more than sport
While the competitions, medals, and personal bests will grab the headlines during the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, the true impact of this event will stretch far beyond the finish line. These Games are designed to leave a mark not just on the podium—but on people, communities, and the country itself.
A celebration of lifelong fitness
One of the central messages of the Masters Games is that sport isn’t just for the young. Whether you’re 35 or 85, there’s joy in movement, strength in routine, and pride in setting goals at any stage of life. By hosting athletes across a wide range of ages, Abu Dhabi is showing that staying active isn’t optional—it’s essential.
The event’s message is simple: once an athlete, always an athlete.
Inclusion and representation
With 18 sports offering divisions for People of Determination, the Games are a powerful example of how inclusive sport can—and should—be. By welcoming athletes with disabilities alongside their able-bodied peers, Abu Dhabi 2026 breaks down barriers and creates space for every type of competitor.
The same spirit of inclusivity extends across nationalities, cultures, and skill levels. From elite veterans to weekend warriors, everyone’s effort is recognised.
Cultural bridge-building
By featuring traditional Emirati sports like falconry, dhow sailing, and camel racing alongside global favourites like football and athletics, the Games create a cultural handshake between the UAE and the world. It’s not just about competing—it’s about sharing customs, history, and pride.
Visitors will leave with more than race bibs and photos—they’ll take home a deeper understanding of Emirati identity.
Economic and tourism boost
With over 25,000 participants (and thousands more spectators and support crews), the event is expected to bring a major boost to tourism, hospitality, and local businesses. Hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and cultural attractions will all benefit from the influx of international guests.
It also puts Abu Dhabi firmly on the map as a world-class host for major sporting events.
A lasting sporting legacy
Infrastructure upgrades, venue enhancements, and the growth of Masters-level clubs and training programs are all long-term outcomes of the Games. It’s not just about one event in February—it’s about creating a lifestyle shift, encouraging residents to stay active and engaged long after the medals are packed away.
The Open Masters Games will come and go—but the momentum it sparks could reshape community sport in the UAE for years to come.
Why you shouldn’t miss Abu Dhabi 2026
Whether you’re flying in to compete, cheer on a friend, or simply experience the atmosphere, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of sport, culture, and connection.
This isn’t your average sporting event. It’s ten days of inspiration, where 25,000 athletes prove that fitness doesn’t fade with age and where heritage sports share the spotlight with global favourites. It’s a chance to test your limits, make international friendships, and take part in something bigger than any single race or result.
Beyond the medals and finish lines, it’s about spirit—the kind that brings people together through movement, music, tradition, and the simple thrill of trying something new. In the heart of the UAE, against a backdrop of desert skylines and world-class venues, you’ll find an event that’s equal parts competition and celebration.
Whether you’re an athlete, volunteer, supporter, or curious traveller, one thing’s for sure: Abu Dhabi 2026 won’t just be remembered—it’ll be relived, retold, and revisited for years to come.
Quick fire Q&A – for competitors and visitors
Can I compete if I’m not a UAE resident?
Yes. The Open Masters Games is open to international participants from all over the world. Athletes from over 100 countries are expected to attend.
Do I need to qualify to enter?
No. This is an open competition. As long as you meet the age requirement for your chosen sport, you can register and participate.
What are the age categories?
Most sports start at 30+, with some allowing 25+. Categories are typically grouped in 5- or 10-year brackets (e.g. 30–34, 35–39, 40–44, etc.).
Can I enter more than one sport?
Yes, provided the events don’t overlap on the schedule. Many participants choose to compete in multiple disciplines across the ten-day program.
Will the events be broadcast or live streamed?
Details haven’t been finalised, but given the scale of the event, it’s expected that key competitions and highlights will be streamed online or made available via daily summaries.
Is the event family-friendly?
Absolutely. Spectators are welcome, and many venues will have activities, food stalls, and cultural displays. There are also plenty of family-friendly things to do around Abu Dhabi.
What should I bring as a competitor?
Bring your ID, proof of registration, and any equipment required for your sport. It’s also a good idea to pack essentials like sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and activewear for the UAE’s warm climate.
Is there medical support during the Games?
Yes. All venues will have first aid and emergency medical staff onsite. There will also be designated athlete recovery zones and physiotherapy access at major hubs.
What if I’ve never done an event like this before?
Then this is the perfect place to start. The Masters Games is designed to be inclusive, encouraging participation over perfection. You’ll find a supportive and celebratory atmosphere throughout.
