Abu Dhabi is set to host the Games of the Future 2025 from December 18 to 23 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), featuring a blend of physical and digital sports across 11 innovative disciplines.

To enhance the spectator experience, ADNEC will be transformed into a high-tech venue, showcasing its capability to host cutting-edge events.

This initiative aligns with a broader mission to promote innovation, inclusion, and international collaboration, reflecting the UAE's Vision 2031.

Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, emphasized the event's role in merging elite sports with technological innovation, showcasing Abu Dhabi's commitment to fostering global dialogue around sports and technology.

Nis Hatt, CEO of Phygital International, highlighted the immersive experience of phygital sports, aimed at engaging the next generation of athletes and fans.

Following the 2025 event, the Games of the Future will continue in Astana, Kazakhstan, in 2026, further expanding the reach of phygital sports globally.

The inaugural Games of the Future took place in 2024 in Kazan, Russia, featuring 2,000 athletes and over 300,000 spectators, setting a strong precedent for the upcoming Abu Dhabi event.

The Games of the Future aims to attract a diverse audience, engaging fans of all ages through high-octane and immersive experiences.

This event will showcase a new class of athletes, known as phygital athletes, who excel in both physical and digital challenges, creating a unique experience for fans.

Phygital athletes will compete in both digital and physical formats of the same sport, with final results based on their combined performance, effectively bridging esports and traditional sports.

Organized by Phygital International, the event features a substantial prize pool of $5 million and includes disciplines such as phygital football, basketball, shooting, and various digital competitions like drone racing and VR games.

The 11 disciplines will require athletes to demonstrate proficiency in both real-world skills and digital gameplay, redefining the concept of athleticism.