The Middle East North Africa (MENA) Special Olympics Regional Games will take place in Abu Dhabi, with events being held at the same venues and facilities that will be used during the 2019 World Games. The MENA Region has a strong tradition of hosting Regional Games for its athletes and National Programs and this will be the ninth edition of the Regional Games. The Regional Games are not only a signature event for the MENA Region but also a major Test Event for the 2019 World Games. With more than 1,200 athletes from 33 countries competing in 16 different sports, the Regional Games will provide more excitement, spectacle and inspiration than most sporting events. They also require a great deal of “people power”, relying upon the involvement of 450 coaches and more than 3,000 volunteers. 

Throughout the Regional Games, several events and initiatives will be delivered, including:

• Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Regional Games
• The Healthy Athletes Program – free health screenings and consultation for athletes and team members
• Family Workshop – a series of discussions and support sessions for the families of Special Olympic athletes
• Youth Summit – an opportunity for young people, including athletes, Unified partners, and youth who want to learn more about the Special Olympics movement and the value of inclusion, to meet and discuss how to promote the mission of Special Olympics in their own communities.