The Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 are almost upon us. In March, Abu Dhabi will be host to an event which will draw over 7,500 athletes from over 192 nations. The mission of Special Olympics is to enrich the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, through the joy of sports, and Abu Dhabi is thrilled to host them.
The calendar of events, public access, and competition timings will be released closer to the Games, but in the meantime look out for volunteer opportunities, so you can mark your calendars to show your support of the athletes.
The events will take place in numerous venues across the city, including Zayed Sports City, Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi Yacht and Sailing Club, Khalifa International Bowling Centre, Yas Links Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Al Forsan Resort, and Corniche Beach.
ADNEC is the main hub of the Games and will host one of the most iconic Olympic sports: basketball. It will also host ten other sports on its premises: table tennis, volleyball, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, badminton, powerlifting, bocce, judo, handball and roller-skating. Hamdan Center in Dubai will be host to all the aquatic activities and the ever-popular athletics competition will be held in Dubai Police Stadium.
There will be numerous activations throughout the city to get involved with the Games and the athletes. Whatever your interest is, you can find an outing that’s just right for you at these Games.
Getting to host iconic events, such as the Special Olympics World Games, is often a once-in-a-lifetime honour for a city, so do not miss your chance to watch the Games or to volunteer. Your participation will go a long way to help propel the lives of these young athletes, so sign up and witness history being made in the capital.
For more information on Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, visit AbuDhabi2019.org
Mark Your Calendars!
Special Olympians and law enforcement officers from across the world will tour the seven emirates holding the Olympic flame during the iconic Torch Run, and it will be the very first time the event has happened in the Middle East! It will be from 4-14 March stopping at iconic UAE locations. The final leg of the Torch Run will be in Abu Dhabi on 13-14 March right before the Opening Ceremony at Zayed Sports City so come out to show your support for the athletes, officers, the Games, and the UAE host.
Interested in volunteering?
Volunteers must be at least 14-years old and commit to a minimum of four shifts during the Games. Volunteers are required to attend 16 hours of training ahead of the Games and there will be opportunities for those with and without intellectual disabilities to get involved.
To register, visit: volunteers.ae/specialolympics/
For updates, follow the games on social media at @WorldGamesAD
