Inspiring moments at Expo 2025 Osaka, where the UAE Pavilion hosted the panel discussion “From Abu Dhabi to Kansai: A Legacy for the Future of Sports and Wellbeing.”
The session brought together leading voices from the UAE and Japan to explore future opportunities for cooperation, built on a shared vision of fostering healthier, more active, and more inclusive communities across both nations.
Attended by Mr. Salem Al Akbari, Chief Director of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026, the discussion featured also Mr. Mori-San from Kansai, representing the World Masters Games 2027. Together, they reflected on how major sporting events can drive social impact, inspire healthy living, and leave lasting legacies that go far beyond the competition arenas.
Abu Dhabi’s Vision: A Global Sports Destination
The conversation highlighted Abu Dhabi’s vision to strengthen its position as a global sports destination, leveraging international events as catalysts for wellbeing, inclusion, and cultural exchange.
Salem Al Akbari emphasized the unique concept behind the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 — an event open to all athletes aged 30 and above, celebrating participation, diversity, and lifelong movement.
“Sport is a universal language,” Salem noted. “Through the Open Masters Games, we want to bring communities together, promoting health and longevity while showcasing the UAE’s commitment to inclusion and excellence.”
The discussion resonated with the UAE’s broader strategy to embed sports and wellness into everyday life, using international events to unite people, empower communities, and inspire future generations.
Shared Values Between the UAE and Japan
Representing Kansai, Mr. Mori-San spoke of the belief that physical activity strengthens both body and community. The 2027 World Masters Games share a similar ethos: to promote active aging, social wellbeing, and cross-cultural understanding.
“The UAE and Japan may be separated by distance, but we share the same belief — that sport builds harmony, health, and hope,” said Mr. Mori-San. “Through collaboration, we can create a legacy that continues long after the final medals are awarded.”
The dialogue underscored the strong alignment between Abu Dhabi’s and Kansai’s philosophies — both nations see sport not only as competition, but as a pathway to a better quality of life.
An Invitation to Japan
In a gesture of friendship and partnership, the UAE Pavilion extended an open invitation to the Japanese communityto take part in the 2026 Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi.
The Games will serve as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange, bringing together thousands of athletes from around the world in a celebration of sport, wellbeing, and international unity.
The panel closed on a hopeful note: a vision of continuity between Abu Dhabi 2026 and Kansai 2027, setting a new standard for how major events can connect nations, inspire active lifestyles, and build enduring legacies for generations to come.
