HH Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, witnessed the signing of a sponsorship agreement between the event and the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC). This agreement designates ADNOC as the official Presenting Sponsor for the first-ever edition of the games to be held in the Middle East.

Credit: Gulf News

The signing ceremony included notable figures such as Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC, along with Mohammed Al Junaibi, Vice Chairman of the Open Masters Abu Dhabi 2026 Organising Committee. The agreement was signed by Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Saif Al Falahi, ADNOC’s Director of Group Business Support and Special Tasks. Senior officials and prominent local athletes also attended the event.

In addition to the signing, the event featured the official unveiling of the logo for the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, which draws inspiration from the UAE’s diverse natural landscape and promotes healthy living and community values. The ceremony highlighted the leadership’s commitment to fostering social cohesion and encouraging active lifestyles, positioning the UAE as a global hub for longevity and sport.

Aref Al Awani expressed enthusiasm about welcoming ADNOC as the Presenting Sponsor, stating that this collaboration reflects a shared commitment to empowering communities and promoting healthy lifestyles while showcasing the UAE on the global sporting stage. He noted that with ADNOC’s support, they aim to deliver a world-class event that celebrates inclusion, heritage, and excellence, inspiring individuals of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy sports.

Saif Al Falahi emphasized ADNOC’s pride in supporting the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, reinforcing the company’s commitment to promoting healthier, more active lifestyles and stronger communities. He mentioned that in the UAE Year of Community, this significant event will harness the power of sports to unite communities, enhance wellbeing, and inspire national pride.

The Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 is scheduled to take place in February 2026 and is expected to welcome over 25 000 participants from around the globe. The games will feature 33 sports across various disciplines and age categories, including competitions for senior citizens, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. Unique to the event will be traditional Emirati sports like dhow sailing, falconry, and camel racing, along with 18 disciplines open to People of Determination.

Beyond sporting events, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 aims to enhance physical and mental wellbeing, encourage participation, and strengthen intergenerational bonds. The games are anticipated to positively influence key sectors, including sport, tourism, and the economy, leaving a sustainable legacy that extends far beyond the sports arena.