The UAE makes history by sending a senior team to the Winter Olympics for the first time at Milan-Cortina 2026, showcasing its determination and investment in winter sports despite geographic challenges.

The 2026 Winter Olympics are bringing thousands of athletes from around the world together for more than two weeks of competition — and the Games are a gold mine for statistics.

There are 206 National Olympic Committees worldwide, which are devised by the IOC and the International Sport Federation. These two organizations are the sole authorities who come together to recognize NOCs for the official Summer and Winter Games.

The National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the UAE in cooperation with the UAE Winter Sports Federation and Ski Dubai, on Sunday honoured the athletes

It’s amazing for all the kids back in Ski Dubai because they can see that there's a pathway and there's an end goal."

Astridge was born in Cambridge but moved to the UAE as a baby.

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The United Arab Emirates is set to make its first appearance at the Winter Olympic Games, marking a significant expansion of the country’s sporting footprint beyond its traditional strengths in summer and indoor disciplines.

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"Amid pressing international conflicts, the Olympics is one of the most significant geopolitical events of the year."

• Let the games begin: Italian President Sergio Mattarella declared the 2026 Winter Olympics open. Two cauldrons — one in Milan and one in Cortina — have been lit, marking a first in the Winter Games’ history.