Participants pose with the mascots.

MANAMA, Oct 19 (KUNA): The Kingdom of Bahrain will host the third Asian Youth Games from October 22 to 31, under the patronage of King Hamad Al-Khalifa. More than 5,000 athletes from 45 Asian Olympic Committees will compete across 24 sports, 31 categories, and 253 events.

The Games will take place at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre, marking Bahrain’s return to the event after more than a decade, following the 2009 Singapore and 2013 Nanjing editions. Competitions will also be held at multiple venues across the kingdom, including Isa Sports City, Khalifa Sport City, and several renovated stadiums equipped with the latest technology.

The Olympic Council of Asia and the Organizing Committee have approved 24 sports for the Games. The official mascots, “Najm” and “Dana,” embody Bahraini hospitality and will welcome all participating Asian delegations.

For the first time in Bahrain, artificial intelligence (AI) will be used for sports commentary in select competitions, reflecting the adoption of advanced technological innovations in sports media. Local, Arab, and international media outlets are also preparing extensive coverage. Bahrain aims to use the Games as a platform to promote tourism, attract thousands of visitors from Asia, and stimulate domestic economic and social activity.

The Games are expected to boost the hospitality sector, create temporary job opportunities, and revitalize service and event-related activities across the kingdom.

Held every four years, the Asian Youth Games are the second-largest continental sporting event after the Asian Games. The tournament, for athletes aged 14 to 18, also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.