The launch of the largest edition of “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer 2026” marks a significant milestone in promoting health and fitness across the emirate. Taking place from June 6 to August 23, 2026, this impressive event will feature an extensive array of over 365 activities spread across 29 sports, making it an essential platform for community engagement and athletic development throughout the summer months.
On Saturday, the fifth and largest edition of “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer 2026” kicked off at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre (ADNEC). This annual event aims to solidify its status as a premier venue for indoor summer sports while promoting a healthy lifestyle through sports and community interaction. Organized by ADNEC in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and sponsored by ADNOC, this year’s edition showcases expanded spaces and upgraded facilities. The event’s area has increased by 26%, now encompassing approximately 48,000 square meters, making it the largest indoor sports gathering in the Middle East and North Africa.
During this edition, participants will have access to a whopping 29 different sports, including 10 new games introduced for the first time. This diverse offering will be distributed across more than 70 arenas, stadiums, and sports tracks, witnessing a 27% increase compared to the previous edition. According to Aref Hamad Al Awani, the Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer embodies the Emirate’s vision of making sports a lifestyle for everyone in the community. It reflects the ongoing commitment to developing the sports sector and enhancing community participation in a variety of sports activities.” He emphasized how the event helps build a healthier and happier society.
Hamid Matar Al Dhaheri, the CEO of ADNEC, added, “The continued growth of Abu Dhabi Sports Summer reflects our commitment to organizing events that bring community members together through sports and social activities. The event expands each year in terms of visitor numbers and the variety of sports and facilities available. We take pride in promoting healthy lifestyles and fostering community spirit in Abu Dhabi.”
Moreover, Sif Atik Al Falahi, Acting Head of Human Resources and National Identity Support at ADNOC, noted, “ADNOC participates in organizing Abu Dhabi Sports Summer as part of our ongoing commitment to support sports activities and encourage healthy lifestyles. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to engage in various sports, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of participants.” The event offers a fully equipped sports environment in air-conditioned halls, welcoming visitors daily from 6 AM to 1 AM.
This year’s key sports offerings include football, basketball, padel, running, badminton, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, cricket, chess, fitness challenges, and others. New activities such as rock climbing, ninja challenges, and sports simulators from myWhoosh for cycling, golf, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, mixed martial arts, handball, and pickleball have also been added. “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer 2026” will showcase over 365 major events and activities throughout its duration, featuring the Core X fitness challenge, tactical games, and the UAE Special Olympics National Games, alongside a wide range of community-centric competitions.
The agenda also features designated days celebrating various community events, including Emirati Women’s Day, World Chess Day, and UAE Senior Citizens’ Day, further amplifying the outreach programs. Throughout “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer 2026,” the Department of Community Development will introduce specialized programs and initiatives aligned with community priorities, emphasizing inclusivity and societal well-being. These include workshops on child protection in sports and initiatives like “Run with Us,” aiming to foster healthy and active lifestyles in Abu Dhabi.
Additionally, the Department of Culture and Tourism is launching a new “Community Zone,” a dedicated area for Emirati families to celebrate cultural heritage, specifically targeting school students and families. This area will feature various activities, including traditional games for children aged four and above, handicraft workshops, coffee-making sessions, falconry demonstrations, and educational workshops designed for kids and families. The introduction of the “Abu Dhabi Sports Summer Dialogues” program will host a series of discussions led by experts in health, nutrition, sports medicine, and community health, providing participants with scientific insights and specialized knowledge.