Kuwait at the heart of Gulf sporting unity as Games curtain rises in Qatar

KUNA photo Kuwait athletes display the national flag during the opening ceremony of the Gulf Games in Doha.

DOHA, May 12 (KUNA): The 4th Gulf Games officially opened in the Qatari capital Doha, with Kuwait among the participating nations.

The opening ceremony was declared by Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, and Chairman of the Organizing Committee. The Games will run until May 22.

The event was attended by Kuwait Olympic Committee President Sheikh Fahad Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Vice President Sheikh Mubarak Faisal Al-Sabah, Acting Director General of the Public Authority for Sports Bashar Abdullah, and Kuwait Olympic Committee Director General Major General Mohammed Al-Khalfan.

In his address, Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Thani, head of the Organizing Committee, said that while the event appears to be a sporting occasion, it carries a deeper meaning, reflecting the unity of the GCC, shared destiny, common history, and strong bonds among its people.

He highlighted that the Games emphasize the role of sport in strengthening Gulf cooperation, enhancing communication among athletes, federations, and Olympic committees, and boosting the presence of Gulf youth in regional and international competitions. He also noted the ability of GCC countries to successfully host major sporting events.

Kuwait Olympic Committee President Sheikh Fahad Nasser Al-Sabah congratulated Qatar on the success of the opening ceremony, praising Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad for the excellent organization and warm reception extended to participating delegations. He said the ceremony reflected Qatar’s strong organizational capabilities in hosting major Gulf sporting events.

He added that Kuwait remains committed to active participation in Gulf sporting events, reflecting its belief in sport as a bridge for cultural and human connection. He also said Kuwait’s participation continues a long tradition of Gulf sports cooperation.

The Games feature competition across 17 sports, including handball, table tennis, athletics, padel, fencing, boxing, taekwondo, karate, swimming, billiards, snooker, 3x3 basketball, shooting, archery, volleyball, equestrian events, and bowling.

Kuwait is taking part in 13 sports with a delegation of 123 male and female athletes.

The ceremony included artistic performances showcasing the heritage of GCC countries, highlighting maritime and desert traditions, as well as Gulf customs and culture, alongside musical segments celebrating unity and cooperation.