Exhibition World Bahrain signs deal to host Asian Youth Games

Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) and the Executive Committee of the Third Asian Youth Games (AYG) have signed an agreement to host the Third Asian Youth Games at the centre from October 22 to 31, under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

 

It will be the first time Bahrain hosts the  Asian Youth Games.

 

The signing ceremony took place at EWB in the Sakhir area, in the presence of Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Chairperson of EWB, and member of the Supreme Organising Committee; and Faris Mustafa Al Kooheji, Secretary General of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) and member of the Supreme Organising Committee. The agreement was signed by Yousef Duaij, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Third AYG, and Alan Pryor, General Manager of EWB.

 

Under the agreement, EWB will host the opening ceremony, which will be held indoors for the first time in the history of the Games, as well as 11 sports from the competition schedule, in addition to making use of all the centre’s modern facilities equipped with the latest technologies and innovative services.

 

Buhiji affirmed the commitment to ensuring the success of the Third AYG and organising them in the best possible manner, enhancing the kingdom’s position as a prominent destination for hosting major international sporting events.

 

She said: "We at EWB are proud to host the Third AYG, which will attract thousands of young athletes from across Asia to compete at the highest level in several sports. The centre’s advanced facilities and strategic location offer an ideal environment for showcasing sporting excellence and promoting the spirit of competition among participating youth.

 

"Hosting this Asian sporting event at the centre reflects the growing confidence in its ability to deliver distinctive sporting experiences, thus enhancing its status as a leading global venue for major international sporting events and as an ideal location for indoor championships," she said.

 

Al Kooheji said: "We are pleased to sign this agreement with EWB, where the centre will host the opening ceremony and competitions in 11 of the 24 sports in the Third AYG. We are proud of this distinguished national landmark, which provides world-class infrastructure that will offer an exceptional experience for athletes and spectators alike."

 

He pointed out that this cooperation reflects the integration of efforts between national institutions to serve Bahraini sport and to strengthen the Kingdom’s image as a leading hub for hosting major sporting events, contributing to driving economic development, boosting tourism, and showcasing Bahrain’s civilisational profile to guests from across Asia. He expressed his appreciation for all the facilities and services the centre intends to provide to ensure the success of the event.

 

Duaij said: "We are pleased to sign the agreement with EWB, which will serve as a main venue for the Games by hosting the opening ceremony and competitions in 11 sports. This cooperation reflects our commitment to providing the best facilities and arrangements for athletes and participating delegations, and to ensuring the organisation of a sporting event that meets the highest international standards."

 

He added: "At the Executive Committee, we attach great importance to partnerships with leading national institutions, working together as one team to deliver an exceptional edition that leaves a positive mark on Bahraini sport and strengthens the Kingdom’s position on the continental and international sports map."