Abu Dhabi to Host the Games of the Future 2025
Abu Dhabi has been confirmed as the host city for the highly anticipated Games of the Future 2025, set to take place from December 18 to 23. This announcement was made by Phygital International, the global governing body behind the event. The Games promise to be a revolutionary format that merges physical and digital realms, celebrating the cutting-edge technologies and elite athleticism that defines modern sports.
The Games of the Future will transform the city into a vibrant hub where the lines between traditional sports and digital gaming blur. Featured competitions will include Phygital Football and Phygital Shooter, along with other tech-driven sports and e-sports. Athletes will participate in both digital and physical versions of their sports, with their final scores determined by a combination of their performance in both arenas, integrating the virtual and physical into a singular, competitive experience.
ASPIRE, the UAE Delivery Authority newly appointed by Phygital International, will oversee the execution of the event. ASPIRE is known for its leadership in global competitions and technological challenges within the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) of Abu Dhabi. The organization aims to foster innovation and ensure all aspects of the Games align seamlessly with the vision and expectations of stakeholders.
In a collaborative effort, Ethara, a prominent live events management company in the region, will be the event partner and manage everything from logistics to on-site operations. Ethara's expertise will also extend to promoting the event and securing sponsorships and partnerships, crucial for its overall success. The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC) has been confirmed as the official venue, poised to provide a world-class stage for athletic competitions and fan experiences.
Nis Hatt, CEO of Phygital International, expressed excitement about hosting thousands of phygital athletes, clubs, and supporters in Abu Dhabi. He believes the UAE’s bold vision of sports fused with technology makes it the perfect setting for such an innovative event. Hatt remarked, “Since the inception of the Games, phygital sports have grown into a global movement. The upcoming edition promises to be the most engaging yet.”
Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, remarked on their pride in being designated as the UAE Delivery Authority, stating that the Games of the Future will provide a global platform for the convergence of sport, technology, and creativity. He emphasized that Abu Dhabi is a dynamic hub for innovation, where AI-driven mobility and immersive digital experiences await attendees. They aim to inspire future advancements in both sport and technology.
In addition to elite competitions, the Games will feature fan engagement zones utilizing virtual reality, alongside cultural activations and tech showcases. The inaugural edition saw over 2,000 athletes from more than 100 countries and received a global broadcast, attracting over 300,000 spectators and fans.
The Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 will mark a significant new chapter in the phygital movement, bringing this unique sporting experience to a Middle Eastern audience where ambition, experimentation, and bold applications of technology thrive. With Abu Dhabi’s rich blend of innovation and cultural dynamism, the stage is set for a one-of-a-kind global experience in sports.