The UAE is preparing for another major chapter in its sporting journey, with 165 athletes set to represent the nation at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, taking place from September 19 to October 4. The delegation includes 117 male and 48 female athletes, reflecting the country’s growing sporting talent and expanding participation across the continent.
The UAE team will compete across an impressive 23 sports and disciplines, including athletics, swimming, taekwondo, football, equestrian, cycling, archery, sailing, golf, judo, jiu-jitsu, rugby, boxing, karate, esports, padel tennis and modern pentathlon.
The 2026 Asian Games will bring together more than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries, competing across 43 sports and 71 disciplines. For the UAE, the event represents an opportunity to showcase the country’s sporting development and build on achievements from previous editions.
This year’s participation also marks new milestones. Padel tennis and modern pentathlon will make their UAE Asian Games debuts, highlighting the expanding range of sports in which Emirati athletes are competing at the continental level.
The UAE Olympic Committee has emphasised its commitment to providing athletes with strong technical, organisational and preparation support ahead of the Games. The delegation will aim to deliver strong performances, gain valuable international experience and add to the UAE’s proud record at the Asian Games.
With a diverse team representing the nation across 23 sports, the UAE’s participation in Aichi-Nagoya 2026 is another positive step in the country’s continued investment in sport, youth development and international sporting excellence.
