UAE secures nine medals at 2026 Asian Para Games in Nagoya
The nation's athletes delivered strong performances across athletics and cycling at the fifth Aichi-Nagoya Games, finishing third among Arab competitors with two gold, two silver and five bronze medals.
The fifth Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games drew to a close in Nagoya this month, concluding a fortnight that showcased the remarkable achievements of more than 2,700 athletes representing 45 countries and regions across 18 sports. The UAE’s delegation finished 17th in the overall medal standings and third among Arab nations, a testament to the calibre of preparation and dedication that characterised their campaign.
The UAE’s medal harvest comprised two gold, two silver and five bronze medals, with victories coming from Noura Al Ketbi in shot put and Thikra Al Kaabi in the 100 metres. Maryam Al Zeyoudi contributed two silver medals in shot put and discus, while bronze medals were claimed by Al Kaabi, Mohammed Othman and Ahmed Al Hosani in athletics events, and Abdullah Al Baloushi and Ahmed Al Badwawi in cycling disciplines.
The closing ceremony, held at Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium, was marked by the formal conclusion of the Games by Asian Paralympic Committee President Majed Al-Osaimi. Mohammed Othman carried the national flag during the proceedings, which featured the traditional handover of the APC flag to Ahmed Abdullah Al Buainain, CEO of the Doha 2030 Organising Committee, signalling the continuation of the Paralympic movement in the region.
Under the slogan “WABI – We Are Beautiful Individuals”, the ceremony celebrated not only the extraordinary performances that produced 23 world records, 62 Asian records and 243 Games records, but also the broader significance of the competition in fostering inclusivity and sporting opportunity. Al-Osaimi reflected on the Games’ legacy, emphasising that its impact extended beyond the medal count to encompass the development of emerging talent and the expansion of pathways for people with disabilities to engage meaningfully in sport and wider society.
China topped the medal table, followed by Japan and Uzbekistan, underlining the depth of competitive excellence across the Asian region. The Games demonstrated the continent’s commitment to advancing Paralympic sport and creating platforms where athletes of extraordinary ability can pursue excellence at the highest level.
Source: UAE News Agency