Muscat – Hosted by the Sultanate of Oman from April 5 to 11, the Games celebrate unity and brotherhood within the Gulf region through a series of thrilling beach sports and cultural performances.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Malik bin Shihab Al Said, the ceremony showcased the region’s rich cultural heritage. Artistic and cultural performances illuminated the vibrant Omani and Gulf identity, emphasising the spirit of the Games. A standout moment was the musical performance titled ‘The Story of the Gulf,’ an epic song that celebrated the deep connection of the Gulf people to the seas and beaches, while also promoting the values of cooperation and unity.
In his speech, Khalid bin Mohammed Al Zubair, Chairman of the Oman Olympic Committee, expressed pride in hosting the event and highlighted the significance of the Games in reinforcing Gulf cooperation. He also pointed out that the GCC Beach Games serves as a testament to the region’s commitment to unity, sportsmanship, and mutual support.
Read More
- Oman’s CPA shuts marble and ceramic trading firm in Rustaq over consumer complaints
- Saudi Airlines to launch direct Muscat-Riyadh flights from October 27
- Oman, Saudi Arabia to strengthen economic partnership at 7th coordination committee meeting
- Consumer Protection Authority seizes 1,236 non-compliant school products in Muscat
- Future Fund Oman invests RO 4 million in Maternal and Fetal Care Centre in Muscat
The opening ceremony culminated with His Highness Sayyid Malik bin Shihab Al Said declaring the Games officially open. Oman’s national beach soccer team player, Munther Al Arimi, took the players’ oath, while international referee Bader Al Sarmi took the referees’ oath. Following this, the tournament flag was raised, marking the start of a week-long celebration of sports and camaraderie.
The opening day of the Games also saw exciting competition on the sand. Oman’s national beach handball team defeated their Emirati counterparts 2-0, while Bahrain triumphed over Saudi Arabia 2-1 in the other match held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher.
As the Games continue through April 11, various beach sports are being contested across Muscat Governorate, including beach soccer, beach volleyball, beach handball, and marine sports. The football competitions will be held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, starting with a match between the UAE and Saudi Arabia on Monday, April 7, followed by Oman facing Bahrain.
Beach volleyball will take place at Al Hail North Beach from April 7 to 10, with all GCC countries participating. The tournament format includes exciting group-stage matchups, setting the stage for intense competition leading up to the knockout rounds.
In addition to traditional sports, the Games also feature a range of marine and air sports, including long-course swimming at Al Qurum Beach, sailing at Al Mouj Marina, and paragliding at North Al Hail Beach.
