Abu Dhabi to Host 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships

Abu Dhabi will proudly host the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships, taking place from November 13 to 22. This prestigious global event is a major milestone in the emirate’s journey toward becoming a world-renowned destination for international sports and endurance competitions.

The announcement came at the closing ceremony of the 2025 edition in Pontevedra, Spain. During the event, officials from Abu Dhabi—including Abdulraheem Hassan Al Zarooni from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and Jamie Dean of Modon—formally accepted the championship flag, marking the official handover to the UAE capital.

Strengthening Abu Dhabi’s Global Sports Legacy

Talal Mustafa Al Hashemi, Executive Director of the Events Sector at ADSC, stated that hosting the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships reflects the growing global trust in Abu Dhabi’s capability to organize large-scale sporting events. He emphasized the importance of this event in building a long-lasting legacy for the emirate.

By securing the championship, Abu Dhabi not only boosts its sporting profile but also inspires community participation, encourages athletic excellence, and strengthens its reputation as a global sports hub. The emirate is committed to combining high-level professionalism with exceptional infrastructure to deliver a seamless and memorable experience.

Vision Aligned with National Development Goals

This championship aligns with the UAE’s broader vision of positioning Abu Dhabi as a center of global excellence. Al Hashemi highlighted the emirate’s dedication to supporting community engagement and healthy living through sports. The championship also contributes to the sustainable development of the city and strengthens community cohesion.

ADSC and its partners are working to ensure that the event upholds world-class standards and serves as a model for future international competitions. The focus is not just on athletic performance but also on inclusive participation, environmental sustainability, and long-term impact.

Hudayriyat Island: Home of Multisport Excellence

The event will be held on Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s premier destination for sports and recreation. Developed by Modon, the island is known for its state-of-the-art sports infrastructure, scenic environments, and world-class training facilities. This will be the first time the island hosts the World Triathlon Multisport Championships.

Deepak Jain, CEO of Modon Communities, expressed excitement about the opportunity to host the event. He noted that the championship marks the start of an exciting journey that will unite international athletes, fans, and communities. Jain added that Modon will work closely with ADSC, Worldsports, and UAE Triathlon to ensure a truly unforgettable experience.

Six Challenging Disciplines for Global Athletes

The 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships will feature six major endurance events: Duathlon, Cross Duathlon, Cross Triathlon, Aquathlon, Long-Distance Triathlon, and Aquabike. More than 3,000 elite and amateur triathletes from across the world are expected to participate, making this one of the largest multisport events in the region.

Each discipline is designed to test a variety of athletic abilities, from swimming and cycling to running and mountain biking. The mix of races ensures wide appeal and showcases diverse physical talents.

Economic Impact and Tourism Boost for Abu Dhabi

The championships are expected to generate significant tourism and economic benefits. Over 80% of participants and spectators are anticipated to come from outside the UAE, which will help boost hotel bookings, retail activity, and restaurant visits.

Visitor numbers are projected to exceed 8,000, with more than 30,000 hotel room nights expected. The direct economic impact is estimated at over $10 million, supporting local businesses and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a top-tier sports tourism destination.

Enriching the Experience with Culture and Community

The event will not only be about athletic performance. Organizers are planning a series of cultural and recreational activities on the sidelines, including festival villages, interactive zones, and traditional showcases. These elements aim to provide visitors and locals alike with a deeper connection to Emirati culture and lifestyle.

Such initiatives will also support the tourism sector and encourage wider community involvement. Families, schools, and local businesses will have opportunities to engage with the event, helping to build enthusiasm and a sense of shared pride.

Proven Hosting Capabilities in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s success in hosting past international events has paved the way for its selection as the 2026 host city. One notable example is the Abu Dhabi World Triathlon Championship Series, also held on Hudayriyat Island. That event featured top-tier athletes and drew significant attention from global media and sports communities.

In 2025, New Zealander Hayden Wilde won gold after five prior attempts, finishing in 48 minutes and 21 seconds. Wilde trained extensively on Hudayriyat Island, calling it his second home. Australian Matthew Hauser and Portuguese Vasco Vilaca completed the podium, reflecting the elite level of competition.

Germany dominated the women’s elite race, with Lisa Tertsch leading a podium sweep. Tertsch edged out fellow Germans Nina Eim and Laura Lindemann in a thrilling sprint finish. Their performances underscored the competitive spirit and excitement that the championship brings.

Empowering the Local Sports Ecosystem

Hudayriyat Island has quickly become a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s sports development strategy. Its modern infrastructure, open spaces, and professional facilities make it ideal for training, events, and recreational activities. The island not only hosts world-class events but also nurtures future generations of athletes.

Local youth programs and community fitness initiatives benefit from increased visibility and inspiration during such international events. The multisport championship will likely lead to more partnerships, training opportunities, and awareness campaigns encouraging physical activity among all age groups.

International Cooperation and Event Innovation

Hosting the 2026 World Triathlon Multisport Championships presents opportunities for cross-border cooperation in sports management, sustainability practices, and innovation. It enables Abu Dhabi to work alongside global sports organizations, learning from best practices and showcasing its own capabilities on a grand stage.

By combining local expertise with international collaboration, Abu Dhabi aims to deliver an event that sets new standards for athlete satisfaction, operational efficiency, and audience engagement.

Looking Ahead to a Landmark Sporting Celebration

As the countdown to November 2026 begins, Abu Dhabi is preparing to deliver an unforgettable chapter in its sporting evolution. The World Triathlon Multisport Championships will be more than just a competitive event—it will be a celebration of endurance, unity, and achievement.

The emirate’s thoughtful planning, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence position it well to host a world-class event. With Hudayriyat Island as the stage and the world as its audience, Abu Dhabi is ready to welcome the world and celebrate the power of sport.