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Athletes participating in the opening ceremony of the Abu Dhabi Masters Games 2026 expressed their overwhelming joy at being part of the region’s largest sporting event of its kind. The gathering showcased the emirate’s status as a global hub for major sporting events and reflected the UAE’s commitment to making sports a pillar of sustainable human development, a tool for enhancing quality of life and community cohesion.
The opening ceremony featured prominent athletes representing diversity, strength and an exceptional community spirit. Among them was Saeed Al Dhareef Al Shamsi, the face of the Masters Games, who at over 60 years old continues to practice various sports, offering a living example that age poses no barrier to passion and achievement.
Paralympic and Special Olympics Champions Attend Abu Dhabi Masters Games Ceremony
The event brought together notable Emirati sports figures including Paralympic champion Mohammed Al Qaidi, acting executive director of Al Thiqa Club for People of Determination. Also present was Zafrana Ahmed Khamis Al Hosani, known as the “Mother of People of Determination” and parent of champions Hamda and Maryam Al Hosani.
Additionally, Hamda Al Hosani from the UAE Special Olympics attended alongside Obaid Al Jasmi, international swimmer and former swimming federation secretary, and Maryam Al Balushi, volleyball player. Their participation highlighted the inclusive nature of the Abu Dhabi Masters Games 2026.
Athletes Share Their Pride and Vision
Al Shamsi opened the athletes’ remarks by extending greetings from the UAE, describing it as the cradle of determination and will. He emphasized that the Masters Games represent a humanitarian message before being a sporting competition, according to statements made at the ceremony.
Meanwhile, Paralympic champion Al Qaidi told the sports union that his participation in the opening ceremony was a moment of great pride. He noted that the Abu Dhabi Masters Games 2026 is not merely a competitive championship but brings together health, sports and an active lifestyle, encouraging everyone to practice sports at all life stages.
Al Qaidi added that the atmosphere was welcoming to all participants, especially people of determination. He affirmed that sports are a daily lifestyle not tied to any specific age, reflecting the broader message of the event.
Inspiring Messages from Female Athletes
Hamda Al Hosani from the UAE Special Olympics expressed her happiness at participating in the opening ceremony. She confirmed that the event reflects the UAE’s efforts in hosting global events and sends a clear message that nothing is impossible in sports and no age limits ambition.
In contrast, Zafrana Al Hosani explained that her invitation from the organizing committee to attend the official medal launch ceremony represents recognition of her journey supporting people of determination. She expressed pride in the UAE’s sporting and humanitarian achievements that enhance community participation across all segments.
However, Al Jasmi emphasized that his participation in the Masters Games opening was a proud moment in his sporting career. He stated that representing the Emirates on this global stage is both a responsibility and a legacy, adding that carrying the nation’s name is an honor that motivates him to always give maximum effort.
Sports as a Lifestyle and Continuing Message
Al Balushi stressed that her presence at the Abu Dhabi Masters Games 2026 transcends athletic participation. She described it as embodying the belief that health is a lifestyle and sports are a continuing message, representing pride in an Emirati woman present with confidence and strength.
These inspiring voices and stories embody the essence of the Masters Games as a global platform celebrating humanity. The event promotes the concept of sports as a lifestyle and a unifying space for will and ambition at all ages, according to the organizing committee.
The full competition schedule and final list of participating nations are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as Abu Dhabi prepares to welcome thousands of master athletes from around the world.
