The countdown is moving fast, with just over two weeks left before Riyadh opens the sixth edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games, an event that will bring together around 3,500 athletes under the values of peace, unity and hope. The opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday, November 7, with a full programme running until the 21st.

These 3,500 athletes from 57 countries will compete across an ambitious programme of 23 sports, consolidating the Saudi capital as one of the epicentres of international sport. Key venues include Boulevard, the Olympic Complex, Al Janadriyah and Malaz.

Although the opening ceremony will take place on November 7, competition will begin a few days earlier. The first sporting event is scheduled for Monday, November 3, with futsal at the Olympic Complex officially launching the programme.

Where will the 2029 Games be held?

While Riyadh finalises preparations, the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) is also looking ahead. The organisation recently concluded successful inspection visits to the three countries bidding to host the 2029 edition: Uzbekistan, Malaysia and Iran.

The delegation, led by Secretary General Nasser Majali and members of the ISSA Sport Commission, reviewed infrastructure, organisational plans and potential venues. “The level of interest, passion and preparation has been outstanding,” said Majali to ISSA’s own media, with his remarks shared through the organisation’s newsletter.

These evaluation visits mark a key step before the final decision on the 2029 host, which will be announced during the General Assembly on the sidelines of Riyadh 2025. The process began with six interested countries and has now narrowed down to the three official bids. This information, published by ‘SportsIn’ and originating from ISSA’s own bulletin, confirms that the organisation’s machinery does not stop on any front.