Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Abu Dhabi Launches Open Masters Games 2026, Boosting UAE Tourism: What You Need to Know Published on
February 10, 2026Abu Dhabi inaugurates the Open Masters Games 2026 with a spectacular opening ceremony at Zayed Sports City Stadium. This multi-sport festival spans Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, attracting over twenty-five thousand athletes aged thirty and above from ninety-two nations, significantly impacting tourism through increased visitor stays and economic activity.Inclusive Format Revolutionizes Sports TourismThe Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 adopts a fully open entry policy, eliminating qualification barriers for participants of all abilities. Official event platforms highlight twenty sports plus six Emirati heritage disciplines like camel racing and falconry, positively impacting tourism by blending global competition with cultural immersion. First-time inclusion of thirteen para-sports categories in West Asia champions accessibility.IMGA recognition underscores the event’s prestige, drawing mature athletes seeking active tourism. Abu Dhabi emerges as a hub for lifelong sports tourism.Opening Ceremony Ignites Tourism BuzzZayed Sports City Stadium hosts the sold-out launch, featuring cultural performances across Abu Dhabi venues. UAE government sites promote the spectacle as a tourism catalyst, impacting attendance and hotel bookings positively. Public enthusiasm fills stands, extending tourism beyond competitors.Advertisement AdvertisementSpectator guides encourage exploring Al Ain oases during events, amplifying regional tourism.Diverse Sports Lineup Across RegionsCompetitions unfold in athletics, volleyball, padel, and football at facilities in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra. Heritage sports showcase UAE traditions, impacting tourism by offering unique experiences like dhow sailing that attract adventure seekers. Women-only categories in multiple disciplines promote gender-inclusive tourism.AdvertisementAdvertisementVenues like ADNEC host indoor action, while Hudayriyat Island closes the games, boosting coastal tourism.Al Ain Emerges as Tourism HotspotAl Ain, UNESCO-listed for oases, hosts key events, drawing athletes to its gardens and forts. DCT Abu Dhabi initiatives tie sports to heritage tourism, positively impacting visitor exploration of Hili Archaeological Park. Desert landscapes enhance endurance races.Advertisement AdvertisementAl Ain‘s tourism infrastructure supports influxes, sustaining local crafts and dining scenes.Al Dhafra’s Desert Tourism ThrivesAl Dhafra venues spotlight camel racing and falconry, immersing participants in Bedouin culture. Regional tourism boards leverage the games for eco-desert tourism, impacting authenticity and overnight stays positively. Empty Quarter fringes add allure.Sustainable practices ensure heritage preservation, appealing to cultural tourism enthusiasts.Thousands of Athletes Fuel Tourism EconomyOver twenty-five thousand competitors from ninety-two nationaliti …
