Abu Dhabi to Host ‘Games of the Future’ 2025

Abu Dhabi has officially been named the host city for the 2025 edition of Games of the Future, a global sports and technology event that blends physical competition with digital gameplay. Taking place from 18th to 23rd December at the ADNEC Centre, the event will showcase the convergence of sport, esports and immersive tech in one of the world’s fastest-rising innovation hubs.

The event, which debuted in Russia in 2024, features a unique “phygital” format, where athletes compete in a combination of real-world physical activities followed by their digital equivalents. Whether it’s football, basketball, martial arts or even dance, each sport transitions from traditional competition to a virtual environment in real time, challenging players to master both formats to win.

Bringing the event to the UAE is a strategic move that aligns closely with Abu Dhabi’s broader goals of establishing itself as a capital for future-oriented events, digital innovation and youth engagement. The emirate has rapidly built a reputation for attracting cutting-edge sports and entertainment projects, from UFC events to esports tournaments and Games of the Future fits squarely within that vision.

Organisers expect more than 250 teams to take part across over 20 phygital disciplines. The event will also feature fan zones, youth workshops, innovation labs and panel discussions with tech and sports leaders, designed to turn the Games of the Future into a cultural moment as much as a competitive spectacle.

The ADNEC venue offers climate-controlled flexibility and integrated digital infrastructure, making it well-suited to a hybrid event format that demands both traditional sporting arenas and immersive tech spaces. The inclusion of local UAE-based teams and tech startups is also expected to be a prominent feature, highlighting the region’s commitment to growing homegrown talent.

With a strong emphasis on youth audiences, digital participation and social media integration, Games of the Future 2025 aims to be more than just another multi-sport event. It’s a live demonstration of how sport and digital culture are merging to redefine global competition and how cities like Abu Dhabi are positioning themselves at the centre of this shift.