57 nations unite for two weeks of sporting excellence and cultural harmony
RIYADH | By ASJF News
The 6th Islamic Solidarity Games officially opened in Riyadh on Friday night with a vibrant and grand ceremony that celebrated unity, culture, and the shared spirit of the Islamic world.
Held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the event marked the beginning of two weeks of intense sporting competition featuring 3,500 athletes from 57 Islamic countries.
Organized by the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA), the Games will run until 21 November, showcasing 23 sports across four venue clusters in the Saudi capital. The event also marks a symbolic return to the Kingdom, which hosted the inaugural edition of the Games in 2005.
The opening ceremony blended traditional performances with modern visual displays, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global sports hub. Flags from all participating nations were proudly paraded, while athletes and officials were welcomed with thunderous applause from the capacity crowd.
His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport, President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and President of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association, expressed pride in hosting the Games once again.
“This gathering embodies the values of peace, brotherhood, and cooperation among Islamic nations,” said Prince Abdulaziz. “Through sport, we build bridges of understanding and celebrate our shared aspirations.”
Competitions in futsal, volleyball, and boxing had already commenced earlier in the week, while the coming days will feature action in athletics, para athletics, basketball 3×3, camel racing, duathlon, equestrian, esports, fencing, handball, judo, ju-jitsu, karate, muay thai, para powerlifting, swimming, taekwondo, table tennis, weightlifting, wrestling, and wushu.
The Islamic Solidarity Games continue to play a vital role in strengthening cultural exchange and promoting the values of friendship, unity, and mutual respect through sport.