The Two Holy Mosques’ Patronage Lifts the Curtain on the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh
A monumental moment for global Islamic sport is upon us. Under the esteemed patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games are set to officially kick off tomorrow, Friday, November 7, in the vibrant Saudi capital, Riyadh. This colossal multi-sport gathering, which will run until November 21, 2025, proudly welcomes the participation of 57 Islamic nations.
Saudi Arabia’s role as host for this major event underscores the Kingdom’s unwavering leadership in forging stronger bonds of solidarity across the Islamic world—with sport serving as a powerful catalyst. The Games’ return to Saudi soil is particularly poignant, marking exactly 20 years since the inaugural official edition took place in Makkah in 2005, where athletes from across the Islamic Ummah first united in a spirit of fair competition.
Royal Support and Global Ambition
Speaking on this significant occasion, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sport, President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and President of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association, emphasized the gravity of the royal endorsement.
“This generous royal patronage reflects the paramount importance the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques places on joint Islamic action, and his steadfast commitment to strengthening the ties of cooperation and fraternity among the member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC),” stated Prince Abdulaziz. He added that sport is positioned as one of the essential ‘cultural bridges’ that connect nations and cultivate the crucial values of peace, unity, and integration.
The Minister detailed the scale of the forthcoming spectacle: “We are honoured to host more than 3,000 male and female athletes from 57 Islamic countries, competing across over 22 different sports.” He affirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to delivering an “exceptional edition” that will showcase Saudi Arabia’s world-class organizational capabilities and cement its growing legacy as a formidable host of the most prominent international sporting events.
The Islamic Solidarity Games stand as one of the most vital athletic rendezvous in the Islamic world, offering a lively arena for fierce yet fair competition. The event powerfully reflects the Kingdom’s enduring mission to champion all efforts that promote unity and peace among Islamic nations, further reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s pioneering and dedicated role in serving the Islamic world across every possible field.
