Egypt hosts 10th Special Olympics Regional Games in Cairo

Egypt is hosting the 10th Special Olympics Regional Games for the Middle East and North Africa, titled ‘Cairo 2026’. The event, held under the theme ‘Performance Sports’, runs from September 17 to 23.

The opening ceremony took place at the Dr. Hassan Mostafa Hall in 6th of October City, attended by officials including Ayman Abdel Wahab, Regional President of Special Olympics International, and Hani Mahmoud, President of Special Olympics Egypt. The games feature participants from 13 Arab countries, including 173 athletes and delegation heads.

Competitions are spread across several disciplines and locations, including equestrianism at the Gezira Sporting Club, physical strength at the Maadi Olympic Center, and artistic and rhythmic gymnastics at the Nadi Club in 6th of October City. The event also includes a regional youth conference and an athlete preparation conference for individuals with disabilities.

Zeina Tawakkol, Executive Director of the ‘Qaderoon Ba Ikhtilaf’ Fund, attended the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of celebrating human will and talent through sports to promote social inclusion.