The Islamic Solidarity Games 2025 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will welcome 57 nations, 21 sports, and more than 4,000 athletes. But beyond the stadium classics, this year’s edition is shaking up expectations with a few surprising inclusions that blend tradition, technology, and modern athleticism.
📍 Venue & Dates
Host City: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
Event Dates: –
Venues: King Fahd International Stadium, Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium, Green Halls Complex, and other major Riyadh sports centers.
Source: ISSA Official Site
1️⃣ Camel Racing — Where Heritage Meets High Tech
Camel racing is one of the oldest sports in the Arab world — but Riyadh 2025 will show its modern side. Robots replace human jockeys, GPS tracking ensures fairness, and high-speed cameras capture every gallop. Expect massive crowds and cultural pride as Saudi Arabia turns heritage into a high-tech spectacle.
2️⃣ E-Sports — Gaming Goes Global in the Islamic World
For the first time, competitive gaming joins the Islamic Solidarity Games lineup. Titles such as FIFA and Valorant are expected to headline, backed by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 investment in digital sports. It’s a bridge between youth culture, technology, and sport — proof that esports have arrived on the world stage.
3️⃣ Traditional Archery — Precision, Heritage and Zen
Archery has deep roots in Islamic history, and its inclusion blends spirituality with skill. Participants use handcrafted bows and ceremonial attire to keep alive the Prophet-era heritage of the sport, creating a meditative yet thrilling competition to watch.
4️⃣ Muay Thai — Global Martial Arts in a New Arena
One of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing martial arts disciplines joins the Games. Expect fierce technical bouts, fast-paced action, and an international lineup of fighters. This move reinforces the Islamic Solidarity Games’ push for diversity and inclusion across regions.
5️⃣ Women’s Futsal — Fast, Skillful and Empowering
Women’s futsal (indoor football) will be one of the breakout highlights. Fast, tactical, and full of energy, it symbolizes how women’s sports are gaining visibility across the Islamic world — a clear step toward broader inclusion and empowerment through sport.
🌍 Why Riyadh 2025 Matters Globally
The Games aren’t just for Muslim nations — they’re a window into how sport is being redefined globally. With new disciplines, inclusive representation, and tech-infused tradition, Riyadh 2025 could rival the Olympics in innovation and audience growth.
Follow the Event: Islamic Solidarity Games 2025
- Instagram (Event): @25isg
- Instagram (ISSA Governing Body): @issasportofficial
- Facebook: Islamic Solidarity Games 2025
- Twitter/X Hashtag: #IslamicSolidarityGames | #Riyadh2025 | #ISG2025
📚 Sources & Further Reading
🏈 If you enjoyed discovering unique global sports, don’t miss our feature on American Football Day 2025 — exploring how the gridiron defines U.S. culture and why 2025 marks a new era for the sport.
