Reported: 1 November 2026
Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee, has highlighted the values of friendship, excellence and cooperation as the UAE prepares for the Youth Olympic Games, Dakar 2026.
Reported on 1 November 2026, the Games are scheduled to run in Senegal from 31 October to 13 November 2026, with events across 25 sports and participation from approximately 2,700 athletes representing 206 National Olympic Committees, plus the Refugee Olympic Team.
UAE contingent for Dakar 2026
The UAE says it is sending its largest-ever contingent to the Youth Olympics, with 12 athletes competing across nine sports.
The announcement lists athletes including Abdullah Al Ameri (swimming), Hamdan Al Mazmi (judo), Alia Al Muhairi (equestrian), Huda Al Ali and Khalifa Al Kaabi (archery), Sultan Al Hammadi (cycling), Charlotte Thurston (triathlon), Saeed Omar, Aisha Mohammed and Arwa Ali (athletics), Rayan Malhan (badminton) and Moaz Wael (boxing).
Sportsmanship and opening details
The report notes that Rayan Malhan opened the UAE campaign by competing in the men’s singles badminton event, with badminton competitions continuing for three consecutive days.
It also mentions that the UAE flag at the opening ceremony was carried by Alia Al Muhairi and Hamdan Al Mazmi. The opening ceremony included a torch relay and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, marking the start of the Games.
Source: Dubai Media Office.