President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed winners, organizers, and working teams from the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi, recognizing their efforts to promote lifelong participation in sports and healthy living across communities.
The gathering took place on Tuesday, where the UAE President praised the athletes and organizers for making the event a success. He said the competition reflects the country’s commitment to encouraging people of all ages to stay active and enjoy the benefits of sport throughout their lives.
Sheikh Mohamed was joined by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi.
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi was held in February and attracted more than 25,000 athletes from 92 countries. Competitors took part in 38 different sports held at venues across Abu Dhabi, making it one of the largest community sporting events in the region.
The competition welcomed athletes aged 30 and above, with no upper age limit. The event encouraged people from different backgrounds and age groups to remain active while celebrating the values of friendship, health, and personal achievement.
A key feature of the games was its strong focus on inclusion. The event included 13 sports for athletes with disabilities, giving participants the opportunity to compete and demonstrate the unifying power of sport.
Unlike many international sporting events that focus mainly on winning medals, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi placed greater importance on participation, lifelong fitness, and community involvement. Organizers designed the event to inspire people to stay physically active and enjoy sport at every stage of life.
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the positive role that sports play in improving public health, strengthening communities, and bringing people together from around the world. He praised everyone involved for helping create an event that reflected these values.
The winning athletes thanked Sheikh Mohamed for his continued support of community sports in the UAE. They said his encouragement has helped create more opportunities for people to participate in sports regardless of age or ability.
Participants also praised the organization of the event and the welcoming atmosphere provided throughout the competition. Many described the games as an opportunity to build friendships, experience different cultures, and celebrate the spirit of fair competition.
The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi also showcased the UAE’s ability to host large international sporting events. By welcoming thousands of athletes from around the world, the event highlighted the country’s growing reputation as a global destination for sports, tourism, and cultural exchange.
The success of the competition supports the UAE’s wider goal of encouraging healthier lifestyles and increasing community participation in physical activity. Officials hope the event will continue to inspire more people to stay active and enjoy the lifelong benefits of sport.
With strong international participation and a focus on inclusion, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi has become an important platform for promoting fitness, unity, and healthy living while strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading host of global sporting events.
