The 6th Islamic Solidarity Games 2025, set to take place in Riyadh from 7–21 November, is positioning itself as a landmark event for athletes and journalists across the Muslim world.
Germany| By Sayer Zaland
Saudi Arabia is finalizing preparations to host the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG), set to take place in Riyadh from November 7 to 21, 2025. Saudi Arabia is bringing together athletes and journalists from across the Islamic world in what promises to be one of the most inclusive and technologically advanced editions of the Games yet.
Organized by the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Sport, the event will feature athletes from 57 member countries. The athletes are competing in more than 21 sports, including athletics, wrestling, taekwondo, futsal, weightlifting, judo, and e-sports.
Facilities for Media and Athletes
The Riyadh 2025 Organizing Committee has placed special emphasis on supporting the media, recognizing journalists as vital storytellers of the Games. Accredited journalists will be offered free entry visas, complimentary local transportation, and discounted hotel accommodation arranged through the organizing committee.
A modern Main Media Center (MMC), equipped with high speed internet, dedicated workstations, press conference halls, and multilingual support, will operate throughout the Games. Mobile media hubs will also be set up at competition venues to ensure timely coverage and direct athlete access.
These Games reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to sports diplomacy and international engagement. According to Saudi Media Reports, they are aiming to make Riyadh 2025 the most media friendly and connected edition in the event’s history.
Athletes will benefit from world class facilities at newly built and renovated venues across Riyadh, featuring modern training centers, medical units, and advanced digital infrastructure.
Unity and Youth Empowerment
The Islamic Solidarity Games, first held in 2005, serve as a bridge among Muslim majority nations through sport, friendship, and cultural exchange. This year’s edition will focus on youth participation, inclusivity, and innovation, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to promote global cooperation through sports.
“Hosting such a large-scale multi-sport event demonstrates the Kingdom’s leadership in uniting nations through positive values and sporting excellence,” said Firooz Mashoof, a senior Afghan Sports Journalist
Afghanistan Among Participating Nations
Afghanistan’s futsal delegation, hailed as a symbol of national pride and resilience, will finalize its preparations at a training camp in Mashhad, Iran, starting October 25, before heading to Riyadh.
Eight teams will take part in the futsal competition: Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Libya, and Azerbaijan. The official draw will be held on Thursday in Riyadh. According to organizers, Saudi Arabia and Iran will lead Groups A and B, respectively, while Afghanistan has been placed in Group B alongside Libya.
Mohammad Jawad Safari Member of the Futsal squad, described the lineup as “a balanced mix of experience and youthful energy,” adding that the players “carry the hopes of a nation eager to see its flag shine on the international stage.”
Afghan sports journalists also welcomed Saudi Arabia’s arrangements for media, calling them “a model of respect and professionalism.” Mashoof noted, “The free visa and media support will make it easier for Afghan reporters to share our athletes’ stories with the world.”
Looking Ahead
With advanced facilities, global standard logistics, and a strong focus on media accessibility, the Riyadh 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games are set to become a defining event for Muslim athletes and journalists alike, a celebration of unity, youth, and progress through sport.
The opening ceremony will take place at King Fahd International Stadium on November 7, with thousands of athletes, officials, and media representatives expected to attend.
