The city of Riyadh is taking major steps toward hosting the 6th edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, scheduled from 7 to 21 November 2025. Representatives from all 57 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) gathered this month for the official Chefs de Mission Seminar, a significant milestone on the road to the Games.
The two-day seminar, jointly organized by the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) and the Riyadh 2025 Local Organising Committee (LOC), offered NOC delegations operational briefings, venue tours, and comprehensive updates on all aspects of Games preparation.
Key topics included sport entry systems, qualification pathways, accreditation, athlete services, anti-doping procedures, medical support, transportation logistics, and media coordination. The sessions were interactive, giving delegates the opportunity to raise questions and engage directly with organisers.
Ian Reid, CEO of Riyadh 2025, highlighted the momentum behind the project:
“The Organising Committee is growing rapidly and working in close partnership with regional and international bodies to deliver a world-class sporting experience. We are honoured to welcome all 57 member nations this November to a celebration of unity and sporting excellence.”
Participants toured major facilities, including the Athletes’ Village—equipped with modern training infrastructure—as well as competition venues such as the Boulevard cluster and the Prince Faisal Bin Fahad Olympic Complex. Delegations also visited culturally symbolic sites, including the camel racing and equestrian arenas, reflecting the event’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. The Games’ compact layout is designed to maximise efficiency and enhance both athlete and spectator experiences.
His Highness Prince Fahad Bin Jalawi Al-Saud, Chairman of the LOC, commented:
“As we prepare to host athletes and delegations from across the Islamic world, we reaffirm our dedication to the values of solidarity, cultural pride, and peace through sport. Hosting the Games again—20 years after the inaugural edition in Saudi Arabia—is a proud moment for our nation and a reflection of our long-term commitment to progress and leadership in sport.”
The Riyadh 2025 programme will include 24 sports, among them 19 Olympic and regional disciplines and three para-sports. Traditional events such as camel racing and equestrian will feature alongside global favourites and a strong line-up of combat sports—including Muaythai, proudly represented within the AIMS family.
AIMS President Stephan Fox praised Saudi Arabia’s vision and leadership in advancing sport, inclusion, and equality. Commending the Kingdom’s proactive role under Vision 2030, Fox noted the rising profile of Saudi athletes, especially women, who are becoming role models for a new generation across the region and beyond.
“The commitment to diversity, health, and inclusion is not only being promoted—it is being practiced. The progress we are witnessing is transformative,” he stated.
With less than six months to go, the LOC continues its preparations with a clear focus on delivering a Games that reflect the shared values of unity, participation, and solidarity among the ISSA member nations.
