Abu Dhabi to host 2019 Special Olympics World Games

Abu Dhabi has been chosen to host the 2019 Special Olympics World Games – set to be the world’s largest humanitarian and sporting event of 2019.

The Special Olympics International board voted to award the event to Abu Dhabi based on a comprehensive bid proposal, a site visit by a board committee, and the country’s vision to create inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities, a statement said.

The news was welcomed by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"UAE’s hosting of the 2019 Special Olympic World Games reflects the world’s confidence in UAE’s capabilities, youth & humanitarian image"

— أخبار محمد بن زايد (@MBZNews) November 16, 2016

"We welcome the world’s best athletes to the UAE, congratulate Special Olympics leadership on promoting inclusion & tolerance through sport"

— أخبار محمد بن زايد (@MBZNews) November 16, 2016

"I’d like thank special needs athletes for their achievements & distinguished record,which boosted our winning bid of hosting World Games"

— أخبار محمد بن زايد (@MBZNews) November 16, 2016

“Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi is revolutionary for our movement and for the Middle East region,” said Timothy Shriver, Special Olympics chairman.

“There’s no better or more profound location than Abu Dhabi to invite the world to come together in celebration of sport, in celebration of people of all kinds, and to demonstrate to the world that the lines of division can be erased.”

The World Games happen once in two years and the next event is scheduled to take place in Austria in March 2017.