Phygital International has confirmed that Abu Dhabi will host the Games of the Future 2025, a global multi-sport event blending digital gaming and physical sports. The event will take place from December 18 to 23 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
Phygital sports format
The Games of the Future feature “phygital” disciplines, where athletes compete in both virtual and physical formats of the same sport. Final scores are calculated by combining performance across both stages.
Events will include Phygital Football, Phygital Shooter, and other tech-based competitions, including esports and digital-physical hybrids.
Local delivery partners
ASPIRE, under the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has been named as the UAE Delivery Authority. The organization will manage innovation planning, stakeholder alignment, and funding coordination.
Ethara, a leading regional events company, will oversee operations as the Event Delivery Partner, managing logistics, venue setup, and fan experiences. Ethara will also be responsible for event promotion and securing sponsorships.
Leaders welcome announcement
“We’re thrilled that Abu Dhabi will welcome thousands of phygital athletes, clubs, and fans for the Games of the Future 2025,” said Nis Hatt, CEO of Phygital International. “With its bold vision for sport and technology, the UAE is the ideal stage for this groundbreaking event.”
Stephane Timpano, CEO of ASPIRE, added: “As the UAE Delivery Authority, ASPIRE is proud to help shape the Games of the Future Abu Dhabi 2025 – a global platform where sport, technology, and imagination converge.”
Global reach and engagement
The event will also feature virtual reality zones, interactive fan experiences, and technology showcases, alongside cultural programs. The first edition of the Games attracted more than 2,000 athletes from over 100 countries, drew more than 300,000 fans, and was broadcast to a global audience.
Hosting the Games of the Future marks a significant step for Abu Dhabi in becoming a global hub for technology-driven sports, while bringing the phygital movement to the Middle East for the first time.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
